Eight Bells: Douglas Roy

The sport of sailing lost an avid yachtsman with the passing of Dr. Douglas Roy in Halifax, Nova Scotia on February 2, 2015. He was 91 years.

Dugger first sailed in Cape Breton Island where he raced his Snipe. A wooden Tancook schooner called “Jeto” was his first yacht and she was followed by many more yachts named after the tall ships built by his forefathers in Maitland, Nova Scotia; Trust , Tryst, and Snow Queen.

He completed at least 20 Marblehead to Halifax races starting in the 60’s. The 1979 race featured a 2nd in class on an Ericson 46, “Rocket Rochelle” with 8 family members and relatives on board. It was common for his team to be on the podium for the closing ceremonies at The Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron (RNSYS). Dugger was famous for his excellent navigational skills and his ability to keep the crew happy yet keen to win.

In addition to being a busy cardiac pediatrician, Dugger was active in promoting the sport of sailing. He purchased a Soling to help organize a fleet for the 1967 Canada Games. He was Founding President of The Nova Scotia Sailing Association, Commodore of the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron, and Vice President of the Canadian Yachting Association. He represented RNSYS and Canada at the America’s Cup in Australia in 1986/87, and was instrumental in starting Junior Sailing at RNSYS and moving the club from the Harbour to the Northwest Arm.

We will miss his compassion and enthusiasm for the sport. – John Roy

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