Eight Bells: John M. MacCausland

John M. MacCausland, known to most of the Star community as Big Mac, passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2016 (1933 – 2016). Big Mac was more than just a Star sailor. It has been said that, “Big Mac was the Star Class.” He was passionate about it and his life work revolved around Stars.

John’s passion for sailing was ignited during his childhood summers at the Jersey shore where he raced small one-design boats. He began sailing Star boats in the 1960s, achieving great success in District 2 regattas and International events. He finished third in the 1984 North Americans and won a daily race award at the 1973 World’s.

John also served as North American Class Vice President during the 1980’s and 1990’s. During this time, he organized many continental championships, and set a new standard for excellence for Silver Star events. He was instrumental in updating many Star class rules to modern standards.

In addition to racing Stars and working behind the scenes at the Class, he ran a family-owned Star boat supply business. In the 1980s and 1990s, Big Mac’s van was a staple at Star events providing parts and service. But it was not the parts he provided that made his business special, it was the time he invested with each sailor. Whether you needed just one cleat or a whole new rigged mast, he was there to help and offer advice because he loved the Star. Many Star sailors enjoyed seeking Big Mac’s counsel and advice.

In 2006, the Star Class awarded John the Harry Nye Trophy for his years of outstanding service to the Star Class. He was passionate about improving the Star Class for all sailors – from the weekend lake sailor to the World Champion. He truly loved the sport.

In his racing days, John was a competitor and a gentleman on the water. In his administrative capacity with the class, he was attentive to details and always fair. In his business, he was a professional that went the extra mile. To his friends and family, he was loving and fiercely loyal and always ready with a good practical joke.

Many will miss Big Mac, but know he is glad to be back with the only thing he loved more than Stars, his wife, Ruth.