When Jim Clark, the Netscape founder and owner of the J Class replica Hanuman (pictured), pulled out of the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta in early 2010, it caused a stir. He was upset with other owners who hired professional racers to operate their sailing superyachts. He also pledged that if he were to hire pros, he’d donate a sum equivalent to their pay to a marine or sailing charitable organization. This week he did just that, donating $150,000 apiece to two Newport, Rhode Island groups.
Specifically, Sail Newport and Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island (OHPRI) were the benficiaries. Sail Newport is New England’s largest public sailing center, with instructional programs for adults and kids alike. OHPRI is building SSV Oliver Hazard Perry, a 207-foot, three-masted ship that will teach accredited courses at sea. When completed, she’ll be the second-largest sailing school tall ship in the United States. She’ll also be the largest privately owned tall ship stateside.
“I have made it quite public that if I spend money on professionals to try and win a sailing competition, I will donate a comparable amount to a marine- or sailing-based charity,” Clark said in a statement. “Some of us are fortunate to own J-Class yachts, and if we all give back in the spirit of friendship, dedication to the sport of sailing, and devotion to the oceans that we use, perhaps we can have an impact.” Clark plans to have Ken Read, the helmsman of the Puma Ocean Racing Team, which is based in Newport, join Hanuman’s crew for a series of Caribbean regattas.
If you’re not familiar with the back story to the pledge, here’s a quick summary. When Clark pulled Hanuman from last year’s race, he stated that hiring professionals was contrary to the spirit and even rules of this and other races. “What is going on now has nothing whatsoever to do with the J-Class Association Rules. The rules stipulate that either the owner or the captain, or a non-professional skipper, must drive the boat. …I did not build Hanuman to let someone else drive it. But I also know that professionals are called that for a reason. I am not going to hire professionals to win a trophy.” He added, “No one begrudges the professionals who make their living doing this, but those of us who spend lavishly to win a race should at least contribute to the world in other ways.” He suggested that owners therefore select a nonprofit devoted to the marine environment and make a donation equivalent to the funds spend preparing for and competing in the races.
Both Sail Newport and OHPRI released statements thanking Clark for the financial contributions. “Jim Clark keeps his promise,” stated Brad Read, executive director of Sail Newport. “All of us sailors have spent a lifetime enjoying the world’s oceans through the sport of sailing, and Jim’s enthusiastic leadership in contributing to the oceanic environment sets a tremendous example.” Bart Dunbar, chairman of OHPRI, said, “The school ship Oliver Hazard Perry will serve as an ocean classroom for experiential learning by youth of all ages and represent Rhode Island’s rich maritime history.”
Brian Madigan
Diane,
I have a few questions related to this story and Jim Clark’s idea for a new J-class series. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Brian