Members and volunteers of Cowes Sailablility Club received awards from the Isle of Wight High Sheriff.
Every year, Cowes Sailability Club presents a series of awards to members and volunteers in recognition of their personal achievements on and off the water. This year, three people with disabilities were congratulated for the progress they have made in learning new skills. In addition, three volunteers were rewarded for the invaluable part they have played in helping the charity to provide a range of accessible boating and sailing activities.
The awards were presented by Graham Biss, Isle of Wight High Sheriff, at Cowes Sailability Club’s Laying Up Supper. This well-attended social event is held annually to mark the laying up of the charity’s sailing boats at the end of the sailing season.
The award winners were:
Wendy Todd, an enthusiastic young lady who has overcome the challenges of cerebral palsy in over seven years as a member of Cowes Sailability Club. She has made excellent progress with her sailing abilities and, as a result, is now beginning to sail larger yachts.
Richard Paice, a stroke survivor who joined Cowes Sailability Club this year having never sailed before. He has gained a love of sailing the charity’s Drascombe sailing boats and is learning how to helm.
Martyn Spray, who doesn’t let his impaired mobility restrict his enthusiasm to get involved. This year, he enjoyed sailing the Drascombe sailing boats and also helped at key events, including the Isle of Wight County Show.
Steve Moles, a dependable volunteer who helped to run Monday afternoon sailing activities throughout the 2024 season. He provided help wherever needed, including skippering the Drascombe sailing boats, helming the safety boat and fulfilling the role of Officer of the Day.
Jill Kernick, a Master Mariner and volunteer at Cowes Sailability Club, who happily passes on her extensive knowledge of sailing. It is through her encouragement that people with disabilities learn new skills and grow in confidence on the water.
Sonia Green, who works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep Cowes Sailability Club running. She holds the position of Secretary and does an absolutely excellent job managing the charity’s administrative affairs.
“What a deserving group of award winners!” says Roger Sutton, Commodore of Cowes Sailability Club. “These six people have accomplished remarkable things this year, either in terms of their personal growth as sailors or in terms of the contribution they have made to the running of our charity. I would like to congratulate them all on their outstanding achievements.”
The Laying Up Supper was held at the Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club. Nearly 50 people attended, enjoying a delicious two course meal catered by Sally Cass from the Duke of York in Cowes. The next social event for members and volunteers of Cowes Sailability Club will be the Christmas Party on Monday 9th December 2024.