The sport of swimming in Puerto Rico has suffered the sad loss of one of its leaders, Bill Cody. An electrical engineer by profession, he started his participation in swimming as a parent.  From the beginning, together with his wife Rose, he became an enthusiastic supporter, eventually serving in different positions in the administration of the sport including the Presidency of Puerto Rico Swimming Federation.  

Bill's dedications and services to the sport extended beyond Puerto Rico as he became a member of the Executive Committee and Treasurer of the Central American and Caribbean Swimming Federation (CCCAN).  In addition he assisted his wife Rose in her responsibilities as Vice President of the FINA Masters Swimming Committee and in her role as the Chair of the UANA Technical Swimming Committee.

Bill and Rose attended the 2009 and the 2010 editions of the UANA Conference representing the CCCAN Federations at an important collaboration of aquatic leaders though tout the Americas.  Bill will be sorely missed by all who follow the sport of swimming. 

José De Jesús, President of the Puerto Rican federation,  recalled: "In 1998, Puerto Rico Masters Swimmers travelled to Casablanca to participate in the FINA World Masters Swimming Championship.  Mrs. Rose Cody as member of the FINA Masters Technical Committee travelled together with Bill and arrived some days before the championship start.  On arrival they found a Puerto Rican swimmer that arrived without a place to stay until the rest of swimmers were due to arrive.  

"Bill Cody did not know this swimmer before that day but without hesitation he and Rose offered the swimmer an opportunity to stay with them until the rest of the swimmers arrived.  Once I and the rest of the swimmers arrived Bill told us: 'There is this guy staying with us that did not have a room until you arrived.  He is a nice guy and we used him to test the water temperature for the open water, but we are glad all of you arrived because he is driving us crazy'. 

"Bill was not born in Puerto Rico, but he always defended our island, even better that many others."

Dale Neuburger, FINA Vice-President for the Americas, said: "I am very saddened to learn of the passing of Bill Cody. He was a true gentlemen, soft-spoken and courteous, and a man who evoked trust and confidence in all who knew him. His dedication to our sport was unsurpassed, and he was always willing to take on the tough tasks that needed to be done without looking for recognition or attention. CCCAN benefited greatly from his wisdom, good judgment, and attention to detail. My condolences to Rose, who shared her wonderful husband with us for so many years of service and commitment."

Thank you for this contribution from Gregory Eggert, UANA media officer