Andre Cornu

André Cornu was a distinguished French naval architect and accomplished sailor whose innovative designs, particularly the International 470 dinghy, revolutionized competitive and recreational sailing worldwide. Trained as an engineer and passionate regatta competitor on boats like Caneton and 505, Cornu emphasized simplicity, performance, and accessibility in his work, creating vessels that excelled in both racing and training. His breakthrough 470, conceived in 1962, became an Olympic class in 1976 and has sold over 18,000 units, fostering generations of sailors. Awarded the Legion of Honour for his contributions to French maritime heritage, Cornu bridged engineering precision with the joys of the sea, As the nephew (or cousin, per some sources) of renowned designer Eugène Cornu, he carried forward a family legacy in French yacht design. Semi-retired in Nantes from 2000 to 2003, Cornu remained a consultant for sailing federations, mentoring young architects until his death on August 29, 2003