The flag at Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club is flying at half mast in memory of late commodore John Nicholls, who recently passed away at the age of 59.

Nicholls served as the club’s commodore from 2022 to 2024 and also sat on the Bermuda Sailing Board.

A sailor in his own right, Nicholls enjoyed considerable success both as helmsman and manager of the club’s Bermuda Fitted Dinghy, Elizabeth II.

He also competed in various classes, including the International One Design, and in 1992 circumnavigated the world in the Europa 92 cruising race from Gibraltar and back.

RHADC commodore Roger Beach paid a heart-warming tribute to his predecessor.

“John was more than a leader of the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club,” Beach said. “He was a cherished friend, a steady presence and one of the most passionate supporters of the Bermuda Fitted Dinghies and youth sailing for both the RHADC and Bermuda.

“His devotion to the RHADC and to the Elizabeth II Dinghy spanned decades and was marked by unwavering commitment, quiet mentorship and a wonderful track record of success, including multiple Jubilee Cup wins, and genuine care for everyone who crossed his path. He stood by members and crews alike with a loyalty and kindness that is incredibly rare.

“John's sailing experience was extensive but even greater was the circle of friends who were fortunate enough to call him a shipmate.

“His absence will be deeply felt across our community and overseas. The RHADC will not feel the same without John`s positivity and energy.”

Paying tribute on behalf of fitted dinghy rivals St George’s Dinghy and Sports Club was fellow sailor Leatrice Oatley.

“John Nicholls will be remembered among his fellow sailors as a truly well respected friend and commodore,” she said.

“During our Bermuda Fitted Dinghy Association days led his Elizabeth II crew to many Jubilee Cup wins. This was an epic race at the end of each season between our St George’s Dinghy & Sports Club Victory and Elizabeth.

“John was there racing or supporting his club as on the water liaison and race officer when needed. He gave back to his sport and all of Bermuda will miss him dearly.”

Glenn Astwood, who sailed with Nicholls in the J105 class, described his late colleague as a “very keen and avid sailor”.

“I sailed with John for quite a few years on the J105 Morning Glory and he was a very good crew,” he said. “He showed up every week and I enjoyed sailing with him.

“He was a very keen and avid sailor and could do anything on the boat. If I was short somewhere, he could fill in that spot wherever I put him. He was a good asset to any sailing team.”