The news earlier this week of the passing of Denis Doyle will cause sailors around the world to pause in memory of a great Irish sailing legend. In campaigns spanning more than 40 years, the Cork yachtsman, best known for his Moonduster family of racing yachts, continued his passion for sport to the end of his 80-year lifetime.
The name of Moonduster was synonymous with a unique style and some of his crew, past and present, recalled his contribution to the enjoyment of the sea for hundreds of people.
Eddie English grew up during the heyday of ocean racing in the 1970s when Doyle sailed for Ireland. Now well-established with his International Sailing School in Cobh, English continued his association with his former skipper by referring many of his students to "The Duster" as part of their education.
"I gave them the basics but he gave them the opportunity to forge a career and further themselves - a lot of people passed through his hands," English said yesterday. "He provided the opportunity to so many people not because he had a big boat and needed crew but because he was such a great campaigner."
Two examples are currently racing in the Volvo Ocean Race now entering the Southern Ocean en route to Sydney. Justin Slattery and Johnny Mordant started their sailing in Cork harbour before becoming household names on the international racing circuit.
As a skipper, Doyle wasn't afraid to let people take responsibility. As a leader, his style rested on the sharing of information, inclusiveness and a sense of humour. In later years, as his young crew moved to the professional or semi-professional circuits, a fresh intake of enthusiastic youngsters kept a steady turnover on board Moonduster. One crewman described racing on Moonduster as "a badge of honour".
Last summer during the D·n Laoghaire to Dingle race, light airs gave way to a full westerly gale off the south-west coast. Moonduster's skipper came off watch just as the gale reached its height and took the helm for four hours. His crew watched in awe as he tacked in and out of headlands and bays, literally shaving the rugged coast before handing over on the approach to the finishing line and another victory.
As a sailor who took his sport seriously, the effect of Doyle's enthusiasm touched many. Regulars on board are certain to recall a favoured saying: "Lads, when you stop to tell a story, the boat will always stop to listen."
