Eight Bells: Jim 'Mumbles' Close

One thing you learn about quickly when you first get involved in the world of yachting is that it is a community of characters. 

And this is particularly true for the generation of sailors who participated in the precursers to The Ocean Race - the Whitbread Round the World Race and the Volvo Ocean Race.

This week, we are very saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Close, known as 'Mumbles' or 'Jimbo' to his mates, after a valiant battle against cancer. From the outpouring of love, and the volume of stories, it is clear Jimbo is one who fits the description above like a glove.

Others have contributed stories to Jim and his family here and there is a wonderful biography of Jim, written during his illness on the sail-world website here. We would strongly encourage anyone who has had a 'close encounter' with Jim to visit those links to botr remember and to share some precious memories. 

We pass our conodolences to the family and friends and fellow sailors of Jimbo and remember a wonderful sailor, inventor, friend and family man.