Who is Sir James Hardy? Champion yachtsman and wine boss dies aged 90

Sir James Gilbert Hardy, a winemaker and businessman from Australia known for his yachting feats, has died. Hardy was born on November 20, 1932, and died on June 15, 2023, at the age of 90.

Sir James Hardy, sometimes known as “Gentleman Jim,” was an Olympian sailor before joining the first team to take the America’s Cup away from the United States.

Hardy lived an adventurous life but it wasn’t all plain sailing, especially after he lost his father Tom Mayfield Hardy, who was appointed chairman and managing director of Thomas Hardy and Sons when he was just six years.

Hardy’s father was killed in the crash of the plane “Kyeema” near Mount Dandenong on October 25, 1938.

In 1953, he joined the family winery, but he spent most of his time at sea, winning national and international yachting competitions.

Hardy, a world-renowned yachtsman, represented Australia in two Olympic Games (1964 in Tokyo and 1968 in Mexico City), skippered three America’s Cup campaigns (in 1970, 1974, and 1980), and competed in four Admiral’s Cup Ocean Racing Championships.

Hardy was a successful businessman and philanthropist who was able to blend yachting and business.

He oversaw the family winery Hardy’s for many years before it was purchased by Accolade Wines in 2003.

Hardy, a pioneer in the Australian wine industry, successfully promoted the quality and diversity of Australian wines throughout the world.

His wife Joan, brother David, sister Pamela, and sons David and Richard survive him.

Source: abtc.ng