Irvine Campbell: Industry Personality & Landsailing Pioneer

It is with great regret that we have been informed of the passing of Irvine Campbell a highly respected, and big personality in our industry at his former company, A-Z Promotions, Lisburn, Co. Antrim.

Many of the trade may remember Irvine from exhibitions and events across the UK and Europe, particularly PSI in Dusseldorf and the old ‘Action events’ in Nice. He has been described as “Always optimistic and ready for the craic.”

Born in 1945, a passion of his life was landsailing, and when Irvine retired, he and his family moved to the seaside in Killyleagh in Co. Down where wrote a book about his exploits called “The President of the World” a reference to his time in Landsailing.

He led many Irish Landsailing Teams in Europe. In 1983, he brought Europe to Newcastle, Co Down, when he organised for the town to host the 21st European Sandyachting Championships. He was also the first Irish President of FISLY, the International Land and Sandyachting Federation.

A local obituary read: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Irvine Campbell, FISLY President from 1984 to 1988, a passionate Irish land sailor, and pioneer of Class, the driving force behind hosting in Newcastle in 1981. He was also the first Irish President of FISLY, the World Landsailing Organisation. He was a trailblazer, and his energy and dedication left an Indelible mark on the land sailing community. His contributions to the sport will always be remembered.”

Irvine is survived by his wife Jane and his two sons Stuart and Gary. We send our sincere best wishes and condolences.