hen longtime Newport Beach resident John Wayne and his family cruised the waters between Newport Beach and Catalina Island aboard Wayne’s yacht The Wild Goose, they created memories and friendships that would last a lifetime. Catalina Island held a special place in Wayne’s heart, serving as a favorite destination for adventure with family and friends dating back to the 1920s.
That connection was further strengthened in 1971 when The Wild Goose served as the escort vessel for the Catalina Crossing outrigger canoe race from Newport Beach to Catalina, with Newport Aquatic Center (NAC) Executive Director Billy Whitford serving as steersman for one of the competing outrigger crews and Wayne’s young son Ethan Wayne helping crew the support skiff alongside the race.
Now, those historic ties come full circle. The John Wayne Cancer Foundation based in Newport Beach announced a $60,000 grant to the Newport Aquatic Center for the We Are Ocean camp. The five-day ocean adventure camp is for 24 young adult cancer fighters (some in active treatment, some in remission) on Catalina Island Aug. 24-28. The camp will be located at Emerald Bay on Catalina Island—the same waters and coves enjoyed by the Wayne family for decades. The young adult cancer fighters will enjoy various ocean activities including paddling water crafts like outrigger canoes, kayaks and paddleboards along with other activities like swimming, snorkeling, sailing, hiking and ocean education.
The partnership is made even more meaningful through the legacy of Jack Marshall Shimko, who founded We Are Ocean and whose Paddle 2 Live event in 2011 raised funds for the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.
With strong connections linking John Wayne, Newport Beach, Catalina Island, the outrigger paddling community, and the NAC, JWCF is proud to support a program that empowers young cancer fighters through adventure, friendship, healing, and the restorative power of the ocean. The donation is made even more impactful because of the unparalleled camp staff, which include Olympic and world-class rowers and athletes, who ensure the campers have a great experience.
“We are gratified to provide this donation in the memory of our friend We Are Ocean Founder and Newport Beach native Jack Marshall Shimko,” said Ethan Wayne, who manages John Wayne Enterprises and directs the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. “Jack was a great believer in outdoor engagement to support those being treated for cancer and credited his oceanic adventures with prolonging his life during his own bout with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.”
The mission of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation is to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength, and grit. Through innovative research, education, awareness, and support programs, JWCF is helping to improve outcomes and save lives. JWCF has provided funding for cancer support programs across the country.
Visit https://johnwayne.org for more information.
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