Don Trask — Builder of Sailboats, Sailing, and Sailors
The Bay Area sailing community recently lost one of its most influential and passionate figures. Don Trask, a lifelong sailor, competitor, and builder of boats who shaped generations of sailors, passed away at the age of 92 on September 29, 2025, in Mooresville, North Carolina. He left behind a legacy that extended far beyond San Francisco Bay. Don was best known as both a boat builder and fleet builder of Lasers and J/Boats, a competitive Star sailor, and a mentor who fostered a generation of Bay Area sailing champions.
After starting in the Bay Area as crew for his father, Don moved into sailing Snipes against the likes of Jim DeWitt on Lake Merritt. He then gravitated toward the Star class, where he challenged Paul Elvstrom and many of the world’s greats. Star sailing sharpened Don’s racing skills, demonstrated his competitive abilities, and solidified his dedication to the people and boats in one-design racing.
We took on the impossible task of reaching out for comments from many sailors whose lives were touched by Don. The response was overwhelming. We’re sorry we can’t include more, or even include the complete text from each of those quoted below. A comprehensive collection would fill several issues of Latitude 38. We hope the thoughts below give a sense of Don Trask’s character and impact on West Coast sailing.
Don’s Laser business partner at Performance Sailcraft, Bill Kreysler, responded, saying, “Don had an impact on our sport that touches more folks than most realize. It’s not only his considerable sailing skills, it was his talent for introducing literally hundreds of people to sailing, many of whom had no idea sailing was even a sport, and making them feel welcome and part of an extended family.
“I met Don for the first time in 1966 in Cleveland after his regular Star crew had to cancel at the last minute. We went on to win the Star North Americans. I sailed with him for the next four years, during which time he met Ian Bruce and secured a Western license to build the then-new Laser class dinghy.
“One story that sums up Don: He had just gotten into the Star class after a pretty successful Snipe and Finn record. After a day of racing, he was in the locker room at NHYC with most of the racers, but not a single one said hi, welcomed him, or even acknowledged his presence. From then on, he vowed to welcome whoever was new and build as many friendships as he could.
“Ever after, it seemed he knew everyone. He and his wife Nancy were the most generous, open and friendly couple. On the water, he was a fierce competitor, but had no time for folks who brought that to shore. His impact on our sport will outlast us mortals. He was a true Corinthian in the best sense of the word.”