Friday, July 03, 2009
Ian Bruce, co-designer of the Laser dinghy, was awarded the Order of Canada during Canada Day celebration, recognizing his contribution to the sport of sailing. Ian was named as an Officer of the Order of Canada, “For his contributions to the sport of sailing in Canada and abroad, notably for the design and development of high-performance crafts for young sailors.”
Ian Bruce came up with the concept for the Laser during a 1969 phone call, and in conjunction with fellow Canadian Bruce Kirby, they sketched the initial design for a low cost high performance dinghy. The prototype was originally named the “weekender”, a car –topped dinghy that would be accessible for the masses. The original insignia was TGIF or “Thank God It’s Friday”, it was renamed the Laser and officially unveiled at the New York Boat Show in 1971. From that point on the history is well documented, with recent developments including the class being named to the Olympic slate in 1992 and used as equipment for the first time at 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta (Savannah was the sailing venue), with a further evolution including the Laser Radial which was sailed by women at the 2008 Olympics in Qingdao.
Bruce is also the designer of the Byte dinghy, and subsequently the Byte CII, which will be used at the upcoming 2010 Youth Olympics in Singapore. Beyond his work in design Ian also represented Canada at the Olympic Games, including the 1960 Games in the Finn class and the 1972 Games in the Star.
The Order of Canada was established in 1967 and recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order of Canada’s motto is Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam (they desire a better country). It is Canada’s highest civilian honour. Join the sailing community in Canada and around the world in recognizing this well deserved honour and congratulating Ian on this accomplishment.
