In the end, it came. Like a gust of wind seen approaching on the horizon, it caught us all unprepared: yesterday, Domenico De Toro, President of the Italian Hobie Cat Class, left us. He set off for the final race of a great and beautiful regatta.
Indeed, only in this way can those who had the privilege of standing beside him—as friends, colleagues or rivals on the water—remember him and describe the friendship they shared with him.
True to his nature, his final start was that of a true gentleman: quiet and without fanfare.
Yet, until the very end, he never wavered in his commitment or stepped back from keeping a firm hand on the helm of our community, even during its most difficult moments.
We do not know whether our shoulders are strong enough to carry the immense legacy he leaves behind, but we will do our utmost to learn from his example: to have a vision, nurture it with determination and patience, and keep our ears tuned to every breath of wind in order to make the most of it.
Farewell, Dom. May the earth, the sea and the wind be gentle with you.
Hobie sailors around the world
For those wishing to pay their final respects, the funeral will be held on Tuesday, 6 October at 12:00 noon at the Chapel of St Elizabeth, Santa Cornelia, Rome.