The Ruby Cup (2015)

The Ruby Cup is awarded to the person who has contributed most to encourage, promote or inspire others to participate in boating.  This year we have elected to award the Ruby Cup to Michael Goffe, a long-standing member of GXSA.

Mike started sailing as a small boy, and he became a very successful dinghy sailor, specialising in the National 12 Dinghy.  He won the Sir William Burton Cup & Yachting World Points Cup in Weymouth in 1949.

Before the 1952 Olympics, the Olympic Organising Committee was trying to decide which dinghy to support in the racing.  During the dinghy selection trials Mike demonstrated his versatility when he helmed the Osprey dinghy.   In spite of Mike’s efforts, the committee eventually selected the Flying Dutchman for the Olympic racing.

Whilst holding down a landlubber career as a dentist, Mike was a qualified dinghy instructor, a Yachtmaster Practical Instructor, and a Yactmaster Examiner. 

Since retiring, Mike has continued to share afloat his practical cruising experience right up into his 90’s.  He continues to get afloat whenever he can.  He has encouraged many people to take up sailing, including encouraging Gil Sharp to take part in the Clipper Round  the World Race, which she told GXSA about in August 2014

Michael Goffe definitely upholds the ideals of the Ruby Cup;  he is a worthy winner for his lifetime achievements in sailing.