A Deal sailor has been selected for one of the Royal Yachting Association’s most prestigious awards in recognition of his commitment to RYA London and South East Region.

Frank Catt has been nominated for an RYA Regional Award by London and South East Region and has been selected as a winner by the RYA Honours and Awards Panel. HRH the Princess Royal, President of the RYA will present the awards at the organisation’s annual awards ceremony in London on 18 November.

In nominating Frank Downs Sailing Club (DSC) and Kent Schools Sailing Association (KSSA) said of him: “Frank has been an enthusiastic and active contributor to the life of DSC and KSSA for 51 years.

“He initiated DSC’s youth race training in the early 1970s and shows a kindness, clarity and simplicity of instruction
that makes him an invaluable role model. As both
a Club Racing Coach for DSC and Schools Racing Coach for KSSA, he has an excellent personal racing pedigree and infectious enthusiasm. He is instrumental in broadening young sailors’ skills and building their confidence as they go from the early stages to winning National events.

“A pioneer in the development of computer-based race management and race results, Frank designed and continues to manage the DSC systems, running the management and results service essential
for the smooth delivery of the club’s large open meetings. He has also managed the DSC website since its inception.

“He additionally brings his vast experience to the KSSA Committee where he has been Treasurer and Webmaster as well as Sailing Coach.

“Frank always maintains his professionalism and good humour, continuing to contribute to the DSC and KSSA with the same enthusiasm as he did 51 years ago.”

Frank said of his selection: “It was a real surprise when I learnt that I had won a regional award. I have enjoyed supporting young sailors’ dinghy racing for over 40 years. It’s been rewarding as well as good fun watching young sailors gain confidence maturing into a range from successful club sailors to Olympians.”

 

For more information about how to get out on the water in the London and South East region visit www.rya.org.uk/go/startboating

 

KSSA http://www.kssa.co.uk/home.html

 

DSC http://www.downssailingclub.co.uk/home.html