‘Baucher Will Be Missed’

Fijian Hobie sailors are mourning the death of New Caledonian sailor Nicolas Baucher.

Baucher is still missing at sea after the search for his body was called off. He was sailboarding and failed to return home.

According to information received, it was claimed that he was a victim of a shark attack.

Fondly known as Nicolai, he was well-known in the Fijian Hobie community, and was a frequent competitor in the Fiji Hobie Challenge.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Fiji Hobie representative Graham Southwick said, competition would be not as tough and fun without Baucher.

“He’s a young boy with a lot of potential in the Hobie arena and we’ll surely miss him,” Southwick said. “Nicolas was a citizen of New Caledonia and a much loved team member of their Hobie sailing team. The sea can be a beautiful friend, but a terrible enemy to those of us who chose to embrace her in our way of life.

“I’m sure this tragedy will not deter us from our chosen sport, however it deeply saddens us all to lose a friend like this.

“Our condolences to his family and let them know he will not be forgotten in Fiji.

“On the day he was taken, he was on his sailboard, alone apparently and did not return.”

Southwick said during his time in Fiji, Baucher made many friends amongst the Fijian sailors, who were deeply saddened by his loss. “He had no family in Fiji but the relationship between the Fijian and New Caledonian sailors has always been strong as both countries have produced world champions. “We enjoy the strong friendship and competitive spirit between us that has existed for many years.”