Kingston, July 19, 2022 – It is with great sadness that Sail Canada shares with the Canadian sailing community the passing of Olympian sailor Dr. Paul Hannam last weekend. He was 50 years of age.
Dr. Paul Hannam represented Canada in the Men’s 470 (Two-Person Dinghy) class at the 1996 Olympic Games, where he finished in 20th place with Brian Storey. He was also Chief of Emergency Medicine and Program Medical Director at North York General Hospital, and well-known across the country.
A marathon runner, the Vancouver, B.C., native reportedly collapsed while running with a friend.
“On behalf of Sail Canada and sailors across the country, I would like to express our sincere condolences to Paul’s family and friends,” said Chair of Sail Canada’s Board of Directors Hugh McGugan. “As a Canadian Olympian sailing in the men’s 470 class at the 1996 Atlanta Games, Paul achieved what most sailors can only imagine. Paul’s sudden passing is a reminder to us all to live our lives to the fullest and to reach for our dreams both on and off the water.”
Dr. Paul Hannam’s official obituary, as well as details regarding funeral arrangements, will be communicated as soon as they become available.
About Sail Canada
Established in 1931, Sail Canada is the national governing body for the sport of sailing in the country. Sail Canada is a leading international sailing nation, proud of its world class athletes, lifelong participants and inclusive culture. The organization and its members are committed to excellence by developing and training its leaders, athletes, sailors, instructors, coaches and officials. With the valued support from our partners, the Provincial Sailing Associations and our member clubs, schools, organizations and stakeholders, sailing is promoted in all its forms. By setting standards and delivering programs from home pond to podium for Canadians of all ages and abilities, from dinghies to keelboats, cruising to navigation, windsurfing to powerboating and accessible sailing, Sail Canada sets sail for all, sail to win and sail for life.
A sport in the Olympic program since the first Games in 1896, except in 1904, the pursuit of success in these Games is what fuels the focus of Sail Canada as Canadian athletes have so far achieved nine Olympic and five Paralympic medals.
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Information:
Patrick Godbout
Communications Manager
Sail Canada
Email: patrick@sailing.ca
Phone: 514-213-9897