Speech – 2003 CCV Commodore’s Award

Presented by Clark Mabre on Behalf of Commodore Dave Bouchard

As I am somewhere south of Bermuda, off the South Carolina coast, I am unable to be with you tonight.  I have asked Clark Mabrey, my good friend and First Mate, who stands before you, to present the Commodore’s Award on my behalf. 

I trust that you all have enjoyed the food and beverages and that you are ready to enjoy the band.  Therefore, unlike last year, I will be brief.  I have also been admonished to keep my expletives to a minimum.  I was advised that last year I used the word “BLEEP” eight times and I apologize if I offended anyone.

This year’s award is being given to two gracious gentlemen – one who is here in spirit and the other whose spirit surrounds us every race day.  These two gentlemen represent that spirit of racing which I find to be the hallmark of the sport.  Each of these men avidly and intensely love the sport and embrace it with humility.  They have each drawn into their circle people who have never raced before.  Each has encouraged the experienced and the inexperienced to excel and to be good sportsman.  All one would have to do is to look at their crews to see how they have contributed over the years to the development of this sport.  These men have been racing in combination for over 50 years.  The trail of sailors that they have brought to the sport is more than 100 strong.  The encouragement that they have given to every new competitor is unequaled.  They are, in my opinion, the best of the best.

Even when he was dying, Ben Owens graciously served as a member of this Board, helped with Race Committee and did everything that was asked of him, even though few knew of his condition.

Graham Field has struggled for years with ill health yet has bolstered the sport with boisterous humor, sarcasm, humanity and kindness.

Please join me in saluting the memory of Ben Owens and the humility of Graham Field.

Just think how long this speech would have been if I were here.

Have a great time.  See you next season.