Word just arrived from my old friend Dick Enersen, that shipmate Bob Connell has “crossed over the bar”. Bob, I believe had sailed on 5 america’s cup defenders, all in the 12 meter era. I had sailed with Bob on 12 meters, and I don’t know how many offshore races on I don’t know how many different boats over the years. In the Mediterranean, Cowes, Admiral’s Cup, SORC, so many I don’t remember them all. Thankfully the 12 meter America’s Cup re-union took place in September 2010. Where shipmates could find each other once again.
Bobby was aboard the power boat that set the record between Miami and New York. A record that might still stand because no one wants to be that uncomfortable for that long. I am not sure his back was ever right again, after that.
I did my first Bermuda Race with Bobby on The good ship Dixie II in 1964. He was truly on of the good guys. Always making the boat go fast and always having a laugh.
I loved Bob Connell. I was his yard manager at Newport Offshore, Ltd. and respected the hell out of him. I remember having many a meeting with him while his back was hurting, so he would be lieing down on the floor where he would find less pain and the rest of us in seats.
He was an honest and honorable man. I learned from him that it is all right not to make a decision when all the alternatives sucked, and wait for some new alternative. In fact, the lessened learn is that to decide not to make a decision is a decision.
Once you get to know a great guy he remains your friend for ever. I am saddened by his leaving.
I knew Bob from Newport Offshore.It was an honor and a pleasure to know him.He was the type of person to make you feel he was your friend right off the bat.