by IHCA

The IHCA is saddened to announce the death of Richard Smallwood, from Frensham Pond in the UK.

Richard had been ill for a some weeks and developed complications over Christmas and died suddenly on 1st January.

Ron Sawford, Secretary of the UK Hansa Class Association commented; “Richard has played a massive part in developing Access/Hansa sailing both in the UK and internationally. Here in the UK we’ve lost a very good man who did more to raise the quality of the UK Hansa Class Associations management and race management than any other person. He joined the committee in 2006 and was Chair from 2008 to 2012 then vice chair to 2014. Richard was also Chair of the Organising Committee 2010 Access Worlds (held at Rutland) which met from November 2008 to September 2010. He will be sadly and greatly missed.”

IHCA President Bob Schahinger noted; “Richard will be greatly missed. He was passionate about sailing for everyone especially Sailability and the Hansa class. I know Frensham Sailiability will miss him as he was part of the permanent crew/volunteer.”

Richard’s family are planning a private funeral, however there will be a memorial service at 2pm on Thursday, 26th January 2017. It will be held at Christ Church, Gally Hill Road, Church Crookham, GU52 6LH.

The IHCA passes on their condolences to Richard’s family and friends.