Entries are now open for the awards, which are viewed as the MBE’s of the sport and recognise the outstanding contributions made by volunteers across the UK.
Last year, volunteers in Northern Ireland took their place on a national stage at the awards and attended a special presentation in London. Over 40 volunteers from across the country were recognised for their dedication and were presented with their awards by HRH The Princess Royal.
In the 2016 Regional Award, Bill O’Hara was recognised as an outstanding member of Ballyholme Yacht Club since the early 1970s and he was commended for his involvement in almost every aspect of the club. While he is primarily known for representing Ireland in the Finn class at the Olympics in 1984 and 1988, his involvement in Olympic coaching thereafter and his more recent roles in the club were also recognised.
Terry Windsor from Carrickfergus Sailing Club (CSC) received a very special 2016 RYA Community Award for Lifetime Achievement. As a dedicated member of CSC since the early 1950s, Terry helped shape the club’s development, holding numerous roles. A competitive and successful sailor, Terry owned and skippered many boats over the course of his sailing career, representing the club at numerous events and bringing home many trophies. While no longer a racer, Terry is still committed to the club as Chief Race Officer and is in charge of the club battery, as well as passing on his knowledge to other members.
James Ogg’s (pictured) family received the very special RYA Family Award in 2016, which is presented to a family group deserving of recognition for the impact they have made both as individuals and collectively. James, his son and daughter-in-law Stuart and Tracey and their son, Robson, are all very active members of Donaghadee Sailing Club (DSC). They were recognised for their ‘can do’ attitude and dedication to the sport.
Speaking ahead of the 2017 Awards, RYANI’s Development Officer Mary Martin said: “Volunteers are the bedrock of our clubs and often go way beyond the call of duty in their roles. Now is your chance to recognise their dedication and to thank them for their hard work. Submit your nominations before 3 April and they could be recognised on a national stage for their hard work very soon!”
Nominations for the 2017 RYA Volunteer Awards must be submitted by 3rd April 2017. To make a nomination for the 2017 RYA Volunteer Awards please take a look at the Award Categories, Nomination Criteria before you complete the form to submit your nomination.
For more information please contact volunteering@rya.org.uk or call 02380 604199.