AOC President Ian Chesterman says James Hardy was a giant of his sport.

“James Hardy’s name is inextricably bound with the sport he loved over so many decades. He was picked for the Tokyo 1964 Games then Mexico 1968 Games in the 5.5 metre class - finishing 7th in Mexico - and he famously led the charge for Australia in three America’s Cup campaigns as skipper.  

“He ignited Australia’s obsession with claiming that trophy, eventually achieved in 1983, with Sir James advising winning skipper John Bertrand. James Hardy made an impact in many areas during his life, and he will be very sadly missed by the sailing community and the broader Australian sports community,” Mr Chesterman said.