Prepaid card industry loses pioneer, leader

The Prepaid International Forum Chairman and cofounder Christopher Reddish died on Friday, June 17, 2011, while competing in the Morgan Cup yacht race across the English Channel. The 46-year-old Reddish, a crew member on one of the 72 yachts that participated in the race, fell overboard and drowned approximately 17 miles southeast of the Isle of Wight. The Prepaid International Forum, a U.K.-based international trade association for the prepaid card industry, issued a statement that called Reddish an industry pioneer who combined strong leadership skills with industry knowledge and a personable manner.

"Under his chairmanship, PIF rapidly developed into a strong and influential trade body dedicated to the progression of the industry," the PIF said. "He led the forum's development beyond Europe to Australia, Brazil and India and campaigned tirelessly for an industry in which he truly and passionately believed.

"Chris will be sorely missed by his many colleagues and friends at PIF and beyond. His sudden and untimely death is a terrible loss for the industry. At this time our thoughts and sincere condolences are with his son Alex and his family."

It was reported that the accident occurred at 11:45 pm on Friday as the 40-foot Reflex 38 yacht called Lion sailed in bad weather. A statement issued by the race's sponsor, the Royal Ocean Racing Club, said the yacht's crew recovered Reddish from the water but was unable to revive him.

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