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
Martin received an RYA Lifetime Commitment Award, which recognises the exceptional commitments made by individuals at the grassroots level of the sports and activities the RYA represents.
Martin joined the Norfolk Schools Sailing Association in 2002 and the committee in 2006, serving eight years as a Flag Officer, Rear Commodore, Vice Commodore, and Commodore, becoming a Trustee in 2011. One of the Association’s most experienced and respected Senior Instructors and its Chief Powerboat Instructor, he helps to mentor others whilst continuing to run engaging grassroots courses. He plays a vital role in ensuring that the safety fleet is well managed, and the volunteer team is kept upskilled.
He played a key part in the Association’s ambitious plan to raise £600,000 to replace ageing buildings, both on the fundraising team and then the building sub-committee. Here he was at the centre of operations, helping to ensure the project stayed on time and on budget. He has continued to be the go-to person when anything needs fixing, making, or replacing.
Martin is an all-rounder who quietly works away in the background to make things happen. Whether out on the water inspiring youngsters, mentoring new DIs and SIs or simply fixing things, he is always there.
Martin said of the award, “Firstly, I was taken aback to learn that I’d been nominated and after it had sunk in, very honoured to receive the award. Being presented the award by HRH The Princess Royal was a really special experience and one that I’ll always remember – a really special day.”
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.
The Norfolk Schools Sailing Association
Find out more about The Norfolk Schools Sailing Association– a volunteer run charity that teaches sailing to young people and adults on the Norfolk Broads.
For more information about how to get out on the water in the East Region, visit www.rya.org.uk/startboating.
