Barnes was diagnosed with
multiple sclerosis. In 2013 he became involved with
Kiwi Gold Sailing, a group of paralympians attempting to qualify a
Sonar for the
2016 Paralympics. The team included fellow America's Cup veteran
Rick Dodson. However, Barnes' condition worsened and he withdrew from the team in 2014. Barnes died on 23 October 2020, aged 62. ==Career achievements==