Sir Tom Clark is a name undoubtedly recognized by many a Crown Lynn collector, however Crown Lynn was not Clark’s only passion. Throughout his life, Sir Tom Clark was a dedicated contributor to New Zealand sailing – encouraging increased involvement both locally and internationally.

The rather epic photo included above depicts Sir Tom Clark at the helm of his yacht, the Buccaneer. This 73 foot long plywood keeler was designed by John Spencer and set to water in 1970. The Buccaneer was believed to be the largest yacht of its kind at the time! Also pictured above are a number of objects that were produced by Crown Lynn for use on this vessel .

Alongside his own sailing endeavors, Clark was a great friend and mentor to the hugely successful Sir Peter Blake. Blake’s many sailing achievements included winning the 1989-1990 Whitbread Round the World race, holding the Jules Verne Trophy from 1994-1997, and leading New Zealand to successive victories at the America’s Cup. He helmed the well-known boats Lion and Steinlager 2, both sponsored by Clark.

The name of Sir Peter Blake’s boat ‘Ceramco’ may sound familiar.  Designed by Bruce Farr, the 68 foot yacht won the 1980 Sydney-Hobart race and achieved 11th in the 1981-82 Whitbread Round the World race. This boat was also a great way of creating publicity for Clark’s company of the same name.

The company of Ceramco started in 1974, when the decision was made to change the name of Consolidated Brick & Pipe Investments Ltd . It ultimately diversified into a large conglomerate of other interests, of which Crown Lynn was only a very small part. As economic policies shifted in New Zealand and manufacturing became increasingly challenging,  the demise of Crown Lynn and Ceramco finally occurred in 1989. 

However Sir Tom’s good friendship with Sir Peter lasted until Blake’s death in 2001, and in his retirement he continued his love of sailing on the Waitemata Harbour. He was awarded Sailor of the Year on the 50th Anniversary of Yachting New Zealand for his contribution to sailing in New Zealand.