The 2023 RYA Volunteer Awards were held on Friday 10 November at One Great George Street, with 81 accolades given this year in recognition of the outstanding dedication and commitment made by volunteers of all ages and from all corners of the UK.
Outstanding Contribution
Kelvin received an RYA Outstanding Contribution Award, which recognises the exceptional commitments made by individuals at the grassroots level of the sports and activities the RYA represents.
Kelvin has been an active volunteer and regular attender at Grafham Water Sailability for at least seven years. On Thursday sailing days he fulfils many roles, helping to rig the Challenger trimarans, assisting as a ‘buddy’ for disabled sailors, or acting as helm on the Drascombe longboat with disabled sailors who enjoy being out on the water.
He also attends on Mondays as one of the maintenance volunteers, where he lends his hand to tasks such as building and boat maintenance, grass cutting and cleaning. He rarely misses any sessions, and has readily taken on roles within the club, including being one of the Directors and Trustees over a number of years.
Kelvin is a very practical man who finds solutions to physical and mechanical problems. He is always willing to take on projects, including the fabrication of buddy seats that attach to the Challengers, a mobile trailer, and a hoist. He generously gives his time and donates equipment, which recently included another Challenger, saving the charity thousands of pounds.
Kelvin said of the award, “It was very nice to be put forward for this award, albeit a surprise, I enjoyed the day as I do helping at Sailability”.
RYA Director pays tribute
RYA Director of Sport Development Rob Clark paid tribute to the enormous impact that volunteers have in sailing and boating communities.
“It’s always so inspiring to hear of the amazing work that is happening every day, up and down the country, by volunteers right at the heart of our sport,” Rob explained.
“Whether it’s encouraging newcomers to give it a try, looking after facilities so people can get afloat safely, running weekend racing, or fundraising for equipment so more people can be introduced to the joys of being on the water – there really is a rewarding role for everyone in our communities, from teenager to octogenarian!”
Humbling achievements
“Our sport relies so much on the goodwill and skills of volunteers at every level, without whom the opportunities to get involved in boating would be greatly reduced,” said RYA CEO Sara Sutcliffe MBE.
“They are very often the first point of contact for new participants across the nations and regions, and can help to motivate a lifetime’s interest, or inspire others to train for fulfilling careers across the marine industry.
“It’s so humbling to hear of the many examples of selfless commitment our award recipients have shown – in many cases spanning decades – and they represent many thousands more who give their time to support boating in whatever way, great or small. Our grateful thanks go to them all.”
Start your volunteering journey
Volunteers form the core of RYA and club initiatives, offering rewarding opportunities and assisting others to experience the water’s numerous benefits.
With various volunteering options available, dedicating even a small amount of your time can create a significant impact. Join us and make a difference today.
Find out more about volunteering.
Grafham Water Sailability
Find out more about Grafham Water Sailability – a friendly, inclusive, sailing club for adults of all ages with a range of different disabilities.
For more information about how to get out on the water in the East Region, visit www.rya.org.uk/startboating.