John Ripard Snr - Deep sadness for the passing of the Honorary President of the RMYC

It is with deep sadness that we note the passing of John Ripard Snr, Honorary President of the Royal Malta Yacht Club, Olympian, visionary sailor and one of the founding figures of the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

@ RMYC

John Ripard Snr had a long association with the Royal Ocean Racing Club, joining the Club as a member in 1970. The Ripard family’s connection with RORC and the Rolex Middle Sea Race stretches back many decades. The family has been central to the race since its conception, helping to shape an event that has become one of the world’s great offshore classics.

Commemorative Plate presented to the RORC by the Royal Malta YC to mark the RORC Centenary Celebrations in Malta

John leaves an indelible mark on Malta’s maritime heritage and on the wider offshore racing community. His passion for the sea, his leadership and his generous spirit helped inspire generations of sailors and contributed greatly to the growth, character and standing of the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

© RMYC

His legacy is also reflected in the John Ripard Course Record Trophy, awarded to the yacht that breaks the absolute speed record in the 606-nautical-mile Rolex Middle Sea Race. Named in honour of John Ripard Snr, a Royal Malta Yacht Club co-founder and skipper of Josian, winner of the inaugural race in 1968, the trophy is one of the premier accolades in the Mediterranean’s most demanding offshore event. The next yacht to earn that distinction will do so in the shadow of a remarkable legacy.

The Royal Ocean Racing Club extends its sincere condolences to the large Ripard family, whose contribution to the Rolex Middle Sea Race has been so significant, as well as to John’s loved ones, the Royal Malta Yacht Club and the sailing community in Malta.

Rest in peace.