With a bottle of that famous Gibsons water, the David Smethurst dinghy, a Laser 2, was ceremoniously named on Friday evening, May 3, by members of the Gibsons Yacht Club (GYC) in honour of long-time member David Smethurst, who passed away last December.
This Laser 2 joins a fleet of similar dinghies used in the popular learn-to-sail program that runs throughout the summer months.
Smethurst was instrumental in bringing the program to the Coast some 30 years ago. Initially, this involved Smethurst as a University of British Columbia student driving a van and trailer with six Lasers on board, travelling throughout B.C. teaching youngsters to sail. Since then, the program has found a firm footing on the Coast, chiefly on account of his efforts, with a fleet of dinghies owned by GYC and, wherever possible, local instructors hired to teach a new generation of young sailors each summer.
Smethurst was involved with the program every year and proved tireless in his efforts to make sure all ran smoothly and the kids had an enjoyable time. In the words of his widow, Joyce Smethurst, "The learn-to-sail program was his passion."
GYC would like to thank the Town of Gibsons and all those who donated funds towards the purchase this dinghy, thus providing the opportunity to honour Smethurst's memory in such a fitting manner.
.png;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)
