Ed Botterell, Canadian Olympian Sailor from 1964, Has Died
by Sail Canada 5 Dec 15:47 PST
Ed Botterell © Sail Canada
It is with profound sorrow that Sail Canada informs the Canadian sailing community of Ed Botterell’s passing on December 2, 2024, at the age of 93.
Born and raised in Montreal, Ed Botterell represented Canada at the Tokyo 1964 Olympic Games, finishing in 11th place in the Dragon class with teammates Joseph J. MacBrien and Lynn Watters.
Having competed in various one-design classes, such as International 14, Lightning, Swiftsure, Shield, and Saber Scows, Ed was part of the Red Jacket crew, which clinched the Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC) title in 1968. He played a vital role in establishing C&C yachts as a leading name in racing yacht manufacturing, amassing over 45,000 ocean racing miles, highlighted by participation in the Fastnet race, five Marblehead to Halifax races, six Bermuda races, as well as 13 SORC circuit and six Key West series events.
In 1968, Ed transitioned to sailmaking, teaming up with Ted Hood at Hood Sails to establish the Canadian loft in Kingston, which relocated to Toronto a decade later, and he later joined Doyle Sails in 1991.
A notable figure in Canadian sailing, he vigorously supported the Nonsuch sailboat classes, producing sails and providing valuable advice alongside designer Mark Ellis.
“On behalf of Sail Canada, I extend heartfelt condolences to Ed Botterell’s family and friends,” stated Kate MacLennan, Chair of Sail Canada’s Board of Directors. “Ed’s dedication to sailing took him to the 1964 Olympic Games, and throughout his over 50 years in sailmaking, he significantly influenced the Canadian sailing community, inspiring numerous sailors of all ages.”
Further information on Ed Botterell can be found here.
