While searching for news about the whereabouts of Skipper, Mrs K and the Romance, I came across your great website. I learned about the passing away of them 3. Skipper was an amazing man, tough but always seeking excellence in skills and manners, I learned so much at his side.

I was crewman in Venezuela in Cumana in 1986 (was 20 then), joining in after Andrew Leyzack, back in Toronto, told me Skipper was looking for crew. I spent most of my time in port while Romance was beeing repaired: a new stem, bow frames and planking. I only had a few days at sea, heading late in the season for the Virgin Islands. Romance was soaking water through the stem. We pumped non stop while pounding against a heavy sea for a good 3 days.

We had to sail back to Cumana. What a magic moment under full sail running down the wind!

Thank you for keeping the memory alive. I am looking forward to the full Brigantine Romance movie.

Best regards and Fair winds,

Dr Philippe MacClenahan

La Ciotat, France