TWO young sailors from the Blackwater Sailing Club (BSC) have been recognised for their achievements.
Cadets Austin Edwards and Stanley Johnson have been awarded Certificates of Excellence at this year's East Anglian Maritime Awards (EAMA).
Now in its third year, the EAMA celebrates young people across the region who are making a positive impact in maritime activities.
Austin Edwards discovered sailing at the age of 10, after first enjoying kayaking and paddleboarding.
He now competes in the ILCA 6 class at national events, including races at the Weymouth and Portland Sailing Academy.
Austin's ambition to become a dinghy instructor and pursue a career in the maritime sector.
Stanley Johnson has family ties to the Blackwater Sailing Club, as his great-grandparents were once members.
He started sailing as a cadet at the age of eight, beginning in an Optimist.
Despite vowing never to sail again after a scary first day on the water, he progressed to the Topper and now competes successfully in the ILCA 6 class.
Stanley also completed a week of work experience at the club, helping the stewards with moorings, rib maintenance, and boat park upkeep.
Joe Bird, rear commodore at Blackwater Sailing Club, said: "Many congratulations to Austin and Stanley.
"These awards, with their broad and inclusive criteria, aim to recognise those who show commitment, community spirit, and enthusiasm for maritime activity and I’m delighted to see that our cadets’ achievements have been recognised through this important regional initiative."
The club also hosted the EAMA Awards ceremony on November 12, welcoming young people and their families as well as distinguished guests and representatives from across the region.
Rear Admiral Roy Clare, chairman of the EAMA, welcomed attendees, and awards were presented by Mrs Jenny Tolhurst, the Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, who spoke about the value of maritime excellence in the county.
The East Anglian Maritime Awards recognise young people contributing to the maritime community through sailing, engineering, conservation, boatbuilding, volunteering or lifeguarding.
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Awards are given in four categories: conservation, proficiency, resilience, and water safety.
The programme focuses on improving life chances, increasing confidence, raising aspirations and strengthening communities through voluntary and community participation.
For information on membership or visiting the club, email membership-secretary@blackwatersailingclub.org.uk or visit www.blackwatersailingclub.org.uk.
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