Obituary – Mike Ewart

Mike passed away during the first week of October, finally succumbing to a long illness.

Mike had a lifetime connection with sailing and ships, working as a ship’s engineer on merchant vessels all around the world. He learned to sail in his early teens while in Singapore where his father was in the armed services, continuing to sail dinghies during his time at college in South Shields.

He became involved with radio sailing in the 80’s when the Milton Keynes sailors were part of Dovecote Sailing Club which eventually morphed into Two Islands RYC. Initially sailing Radio Marbleheads he was closely involved with the 90’s revival of the 6 Metre Class, a passion that stayed with him from those early days when a few vane boats were converted and used for match race meetings where entrants borrowed boats until they acquired their own. This quickly encouraged others to build a country wide fleet and even resulted in a radio sailing equivalent to the Calcutta Cup, an annual competition between English and Scottish teams of 6 Metres. Mike played a key role in his home club, Two Islands, acting as club and district measurer and open event organiser. He also was a leading member of the 6 Metre Owners Group.

He was a keen sailor of the other classes; DF’s, RG65, IOM, developing a love for the A Class. He set an example for all who sailed with him of rule and fair sailing observance, particularly encouraging conversation between those whose boats were getting close. He competed at all levels and always in the competitive mix. Mike was an all-round good guy, with an infectious sense of humour, and was an accomplished, competitive, fair sailor and thoroughly enjoyed what he was doing.

Two Island club members benefitted from his engineering ability to do things, his sound advice was aways freely given and warmly received. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Our condolences go to Mike’s wife Janet and to his family.