A story and photo courtesy of sailing web site Live Sail Die.
Without volunteers, 99% of all the sailing we know and love just wouldn’t happen. They are the first to arrive and the last to leave, making sure marks are laid, start lines are in place, results are processed and so much more.
Ken Hurling OAM our ILCA Australia and Oceania chair has served as head coach of Moreton Bay College team sailing team for 23 years. With no connection to the school, Ken was asked by friend and neighbour Terry Buckley to give an assessment of the girls and their abilities while training at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in the Pacer class. And the rest they say, is history. 23 years later the school has purchased a new fleet of boats, dedicating one to their head coach, Ken.
The dedication took place at a blessing for the new fleet on the 6th of October, with Moreton Bay College principal Janet Stewart bringing a tear to almost every eye in the room when she said “Ken has been an integral part of our sailing community for over two decades. His dedication, passion, and unwavering support for our sailors have left an indelible mark on all of those with whom he coached…. and the staff and coordinators at the College.”
Newly named Pacer Ken Hurling with the man himself at RQYS