Sail On, Katie! Remembering the SB20 Class Legend Katie Jackson (née Ashworth)
by Anna Zyk 9 Aug 01:08 PDT
Katie Jackson (née Ashworth) © SB20 Class
It is with profound sadness that the SB20 UK Class Association shares the news of the passing of our dear friend, dedicated leader and class pioneer - Katie Jackson (née Ashworth), following a battle with cancer.
Katie was fundamental in shaping the SB20 Class - from its early origins as the Laser SB3 to the thriving, competitive international fleet we sail in today. To so many in the sailing world, Katie was not only an extraordinary organizer and driving force, but a constant source of warmth, energy, and joy.
A Message from UK Class Chairman, Charlie Whelan:
"With huge sadness we learned that our dear friend Katie Jackson nee Ashworth passed away after a battle with cancer this year.
"It cannot be understated what a huge role Katie played in growing the class in the early years," - Charlie continued. - "Katie worked as the Sailing Secretary at the Royal Southern Yacht Club when the SB3 was first launched and was instrumental in getting events and socials under way, welcoming and encouraging new members always with enthusiasm, charisma and that ever present smile. Guy Jackson joined the class in 2009 and this is where they met. They subsequently married and had 2 beautiful children - Oscar and Bella. Life can be unbelievably cruel and our hearts are all broken today... but we will always remember her wonderful laugh and that smile".
A legacy written across the waters
Katie's role at the Royal Southern grew into becoming the UK Class Secretary, helping the class get World Sailing class status. Her dedication, hard work, friendliness and sheer ability with people to got things done were instrumental in guiding the Class through a massive growth period. Very soon the SB3 was having 100 boat fleets at Cowes Week, The King of Cowes was born with winners walking away with a flash SUV, the first World Championships happened and the international growth started.
Tributes from the SB20 & sailing community
Across the SB20 UK and international social channels, an outpouring of heartfelt messages, memories, and condolences has poured in from sailors, colleagues, and friends whose lives Katie touched.
Scott Glanville, SB20 Class President said:
"The SB20 World Council and all fleets around the World are deeply saddened by yesterday's passing of Katie Jackson. Katie was instrumental in the establishment of the Class as a worldwide racing boat and held the role of Executive Secretary for almost 10 years. Our thoughts go to Guy, the children and family members in this difficult time."
A pillar of international growth
Jerry Dowling, past SB20 World Council President, reflected on her immense impact across the Irish Sea and beyond: "A huge shock to hear of Katie's untimely death, she will always be remembered for her love of life and enthusiasm, I will never forget the huge contribution she made to make the SB3 (now SB20) inaugural world championships in Dun Laoghaire a truly memorable event. May she rest in peace."
Honors from global fleets
Daire O'Reilly, writing on behalf of the SB20 Singapore fleet, shared: "So sad. I never had the chance to spend time with Katie but I can certainly speak on behalf of all of the SB20 Singapore fleet to pay respects and praying for Katie's family. Rest in Peace and from all of us from Singapore's fleet, our sympathies go out to Guy and their two children."
Deepest condolences from across the sailing world
Olympic gold medallist Pippa Kenton-Page joined the condolences, noting: "Such sad news, I'm so sorry to read this, my deepest condolences to her family.
"I've been lucky to be your friend."
Pietro Negri, long-time SB20 sailor and Grand Slam competitor, shared an emotional farewell: "Ciao Katie, I was lucky to share so much with you, I've been lucky to be your friend. I still don't believe this is true. Will never forget you."
"We will miss you Katie."
Jerry Hill, World Champion and long-standing SB20 leader, expressed the quiet grief felt across the fleet: "Such a sad day... we will miss you Katie."
"Behind everything we achieved."
Dave Cheyne reminded us of her early influence, sharing: "Having been there from the start with Katie, I can remind us that we would never have got to the dizzy heights we reached if it was not for Katie - her joy for life and desire to make everyone happy was immeasurable, she was behind everything - such a truly beautiful person."
The heart of the class
Mark Stokes, who served a decade alongside her on the committee, remembered her as "the life and soul of it," while Martin Lossie highlighted her key role in driving growth and making the legendary SB3 regatta parties unforgettable.
An ambassador for sailing
Adrian Peach reflected on her inspiring spirit: "Katie was an amazing ambassador for SB20 and sailing in general... we organized the last SB20 Worlds that were in Torquay in 2012 together."
Former Southern Sailing Committee Chairman Chris Mansfield added: "Katie was totally dedicated to the job and was a great inspiration to all around her."
Colleagues and friends across the marine industry
Former colleagues from Laser Performance, including Neil Coxon, Simon Ogden, and Kim Bailey, remembered her as a "shining light" and an incredible person to share an office with, while Jeremy Christey recalled her warmth organizing student nationals over 25 years ago.
A smile that lit up every room
Across dozens of messages from Katie Hodges, Duncan Adams, Jayne Gilmour, Lloyd Hamilton, Clare Molloy, Kate Pollard, and many others, the common thread was her boundless energy, kindness, and unforgettable smile.
As John Cornish noted, Katie leaves behind a lasting legacy in an SB20 fleet that remains as competitive, vibrant and welcoming as ever - a true reflection of the environment she helped build.
The entire SB20 Class Association extends our deepest condolences, love, and thoughts to Guy, Oscar, Bella, and Katie's extended family and friends during this heartbreaking time.
Sail on, Katie! Fair winds and smooth seas.