Eight Bells: Bob Dill

Legendary land and ice sailor Bob Dill passed away after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease on October 28, 2023.

Born in 1949, he was an engineer by profession with a passionate razor-tuned focus covering all things sailing at speed on ice and land and was committed to sharing all that he learned with others.

One of his most famous projects was designing and building the land sailing yacht IRON DUCK with his friend, Bob Schumacher. They ultimately were rewarded, setting a new World Land Sailing Speed Record that lasted ten years, with Schumacher piloting the Iron Duck to a speed of 116.7 mph on March 19, 1999.

Bob served the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association as Class Secretary from 1988-1991 and Class Treasurer from 1999-1989. He has been nominated to the U.S. Sailing Hall of Fame.

“A sad struggle for a unique person,” said Don Brush. “He is, I am sure, in a better place now. He would not have wanted to be the person he had become. We all were better for knowing Bob. I don’t think I ever met a more inquisitive person with a passion for details. His passion for documentation assures his legacy will live on! It was an honor to know and have him as a friend.”

Bob Dill leaves a legacy of articles (click here) that will have a lasting impact on ice and land sailing.