Surf Cat

The National Sailing Hall of Fame (NSHOF) celebrated its 10th annual induction on September 12 in a virtual format for the Class of 2020. While COVID-19 prevented everyone from gathering in person, the online program allowed friends, family and a host of Hall of Famers and VIPs to join from across the country – and the world.

Nine individuals were honored during the event: James E. Buttersworth (1817-94; London, UK), Gordon “Sandy” Douglass (1904-92; Newark, NJ), William K. Mattison (1928-; Elkins, WV), Robert B. Haines, Jr. (1955-; San Diego, CA), David B. Perry (1954-; Southport, CT), John P. Rousmaniere (1944-; Louisville, KY), Henry “Hoyle” and Diane Schweitzer (1933- & 1935-; Los Angeles & San Jose, CA) and Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Briggs S. Cunningham, Jr. (1907-2003; West Palm Beach, FL).

“These sailors reflect the breadth of sailing in our country, embody the commitment to excellence that few possess and provide inspiration for generations of sailors to come,” said Gus Carlson, president, NSHOF.

“Their achievements span three categories – sailing, technical and contributor – and encompass a broad spectrum of accomplishments, from historic accounts to iconic paintings, from ice bating to windsurfing, and from coaching to safety and rules.

Hall of Famers Vince Brun (2018), Peter Harken (2014), Stan Honey (2012), Bob Johnstone (2016), and Tom Whidden (2017) introduced their peers and welcomed them to the Hall as part of the celebration. Joining from home were fellow inductees Betsy Alison (2011), Bill Bentsen (2017), Malin Burnham (2016), Steve Colgate (2015) and JJ Fetter (2015). Heartfelt messages of stories were shared and the accomplishments of the new inductees lauded.

Also providing introductory and congratulatory remarks were Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, U.S. Sailing President Cory Sertl, Mystic Seaport Museum President and CEO Steve White, Herreshoff Marine Museum Founder Halsey Herreshoff, and Thistle Class President Thomas Hubbell.

Source: NSHOF