The family of a New Zealand man who died on a sailing adventure along America’s east coast say the circumstances of what happened will never be known.
Former Commonwealth Games boxer David Wickenden, 54, had set out from Connecticut on his boat Qori Inti with friend Charles Andrade, 60 in November.
Coast Guard Sector Charleston search and rescue mission coordinator Commander Jason Erickson said a mariner reported seeing the capsized 15-metre catamaran, which was found about 104km off the coast of Brunswick, Georgia, with no one on board.
In a tribute on social media, brother Aaron Wickenden said it was with heavy hearts and a touch of disbelief that they announced the passing of David Wickenden (known to all as Dave) who died on a sailing adventure with his friend Charlie.
“The circumstances of this tragic event will never be known and unfortunately it’s an adventure, Dave and Charlie take with them.”
He said Wickenden was survived by his daughter Kato “whom he loved with all his heart” as well as his mother, father, brothers and an extended family of uncles, aunties, cousins, nieces and nephews.
“Dave is also survived by a large circle of friends who all have their own stories of Dave whether from his days on the rugby field or in the boxing gym or his many nautical adventures.
“Dave’s life was defined by his relentless energy, love, leadership and determination. Dave was always the one you could count on.
“Rest in peace Davey. You may have left us too soon, but your spirit, your heart and that trademark grin will stay with us forever. We’ll see you again one day just maybe with calmer seas and a few more stories to share.”
Dave’s Auckland-based brother Todd Wickenden told the NZ Herald it was thought the boat capsized on November 21 but wasn’t spotted until days later.
“They were sailing down to Florida and had just got out of Charleston and something happened and it’s bloody flipped,” he told the news outlet.
“We don’t know how or what has happened, it sucks.”
Rescue crews searched by air and sea for 77.45 hours and more than 23,000 square kilometres, but could not find Wickenden or Andrade, Coast Guard Sector Charleston search and rescue mission coordinator Commander Jason Erickson said.
“The decision to suspend a search is always difficult to make and never done lightly.”
“When we send our rescue crews out, it is with great hope we can bring people home safely, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the missing boaters during this incredibly difficult time.”