Lieutenant David M Dale RN :: AN APPRECIATION
We are saddened to learn of the death of David. Member Royal Yacht Squadron. Former Secretary International Dragon Association.
The International Dragon Class and the IDA have been well served by many fine people over the years, not the least of which was David Dale, IDA Secretary from the mid nineties to 2014. A Dragon sailor, a gentleman, a British Royal Naval Officer and the eternal optimist, David was always immaculately dressed; indeed he was referred to as ‘Debonair David Dale’ by many of the lady sailors in the class!
He served our class with humility, political acumen, intelligence and integrity. Rob Campbell and I served as IDA Chairman and Vice Chairman respectively under David’s stewardship in the early part of this century. We both appreciated the wisdom and experience David brought to his role and the gentle guidance he unselfishly gave to us newbies!
I also had the great fortune to have David crew for me in a Douarnenez regatta, and we were black flagged in the first race. As we shadowed the fleet from the leeward end of the line with our tails between our legs, David said “you came a bloody long way to get black flagged!”
Together with the past and present officers of the class we send our condolences to his family and many friends.
RIP ‘Debonair David Dale’. Thank you for your service to our class!
Robert Alpe
International Dragon Sailor – Australia.