Royal Southampton Yacht Club

Long time friend of the Royal Southampton, Bernard Gorgeu, president of the Deauville Yacht Club has died at the age of 86.

Dave GIddings, Royal Southampton's former Rear Commodore Sailing travelled to France to attend the funeral, accompanied by Bob Milner, of the Royal London Yacht Club.

The RSYC has had a long association with the Deauville YC and knew Bernard very well with his personal involvement with our own racing events – the Channel Triangle and cross channel Double Handed races, and of course their Seahorse Rally which has been well attended by our cruisers over the past few years.

Bernard was president of the Deauville club for over 10 years and died after a long and painful illness against which he fought tenaciously.

Up till three months ago, he was still sailing his boat Golf Bravo and, despite his 86 years and very inclement weather, he sailed to Cherbourg to host the race committee of the Cup of France "National J"
With the same courage and tenacity he has firmly held the reins of DYC during the last years.

Royal Southampton member James Hanratty would also have attended the funeral but was prevented by business commitments. James is a member of the Deauville Yacht Club and his membership application was supported by Bernard.

The Deauville Club said its members sent their deep and sincere condolences to their president's family, his children and grandchildren.