Eight Bells – Louis Nady

It is with a very heavy heart that we must pass along the news of the passing of one of the legendary USA Finn sailors, Louis Nady.

Louis started sailing Finns in the 1960s, winning the Zellerbach at St. Francis in 1967. He was an alternate on the US Olympic Team in 1972 and raced against Paul Elvstrom, Jacques Rogge and other legends. More than one made the top ten at the Gold Cup.

At 77 years old he still sailed his Finn 3 times a week at Buccaneer Yacht Club.

” He was a true gentleman, on and off the water.” – Jim Revkin

” He will be missed by all who crossed his bow or him theirs.” – Chuck Rudinsky

“A great sailor and man.  He will be missed.” – Phillip Ramming

“I considered him a great sportsman, and Corinthian sailor. He lived a great life, and positively influenced others.” – Peter Mcdonald

“I enjoyed racing against Louie for four decades. Such a great competitor and friend. I have many fond memories, but the most recent of these was chatting with Louie & Karen at the Master NAs at Buccaneer this April, where we talked about Finn sailing, of course, our experiences as chemical engineers, but most importantly and earnestly about the next generation: the joys of grandparenting! Miss you man. Cross ’em when you can. Lou, you are an inspiration to all of us. With fondness, love, respect, and admiration ” – Derek Mess

“While in college in the early 1970s Louie and I along with Ed Bennett and John Bertrand of Australia (the latter two went to the 72 Olympics in Kiel), Finn sailed constantly on the Berkeley Circle and off St Francis YC in San Francisco.  Lou was always ready to help others in the Finn class. I often marveled at how in heavy air he would nail the pin end start, tack on to port and be launched.  I saw him do it again at the 2010 Finn Gold Cup in San Francisco.  He was also a great light air sailor.  My first encounter with Lou was at the 1970 nationals as I was rounding the weather mark ahead in the first race and as he came up to the mark after me and said “Hey, why don’t you wait up”  Typical Lou, always with a smile.” – Peter Connally