Sad News from Australia…

Roger “Hicko” Hickman passed away last night after a short battle with cancer….

Just 2 months after completing his 37th Sydney to Hobart Race, a race he won in 2014 on his yacht “Wild Rose”, one of Australia’s greatest Ocean Racers is sadly no longer with us..

Hicko joined the Dragon Class in Douarnenez with Wolf Breit in 2010 sailing AUS 213 “Shapes”, where he immediately made many friends and enjoyed the racing. I had the pleasure of spending time with Wolf and Hicko as they learnt the basic techniques of their new Petticrows Dragon. The following year  Hicko sailed with Richard Lynn and Ian Olson in AUS 208, below we see “Hicko” (centre) with Richard & Ian in Kinsale.

Always enjoying the Dragons, Roger “Hicko” Hickman will be sadly missed..

Through the Dragon’s Hicko’s expertise and knowledge was soon recognised and one of our very best Helm’s Dmitry Samohkin was quick to utilise his talents on his Swan at the World Championship in Cowes..

Hicko with Dmitry in Cowes, Isle of Wight. Always smiling and having fun….

At the age of just 61 Hicko was one of the most popular and well respected sailors in Australia, he was major supporter of bringing newcomers and Woman into the sport. This was highlighted with his win of the Sydney-Hobart Race in 2014 on his 30 year old Yacht “Wild Rose” which was achieved with a truly mixed crew…..

R.I.P “Hicko” you were a great Sailor and a True Gentleman…..

Stavros.