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Impact Awards

Give a big thank you to the people who are making sailing more successful, sustainable, and inclusive by nominating someone you know for an RYA Impact Award.

Impact that matters

Open year-round, our Impact Awards look to recognise and thank the people, clubs, and organisations that are committed to improving the way we get on the water, and inspiring the next generation of boaters. These awards are presented throughout the year to people, clubs, and organisations that anyone can nominate — it’s a fantastic way to say thank you and reward the dedication and passion that helps our sport thrive. 

Nominations are open to participants, volunteers, club staff, instructors, coaches, race officials, clubs, classes, and training centres.

Make a nomination

Nominating is simple. It takes just a moment of your time to complete our form, so you can tell us why you think this person or organisation deserves recognition. Nominations are open year-round. 

If your nomination is successful, you’ll receive a certificate to present to your nominee and, if they’re an individual volunteer, they’ll automatically be considered for one of our annual National Awards. Impact Award nominations can be received at any time, but any nominations received before 1 October will be in the running for that year’s National Awards.  

Each home country operates their own submission form so please nominate in the appropriate country.

The National Awards

We award stand-out contributions across multiple categories every year, with four awards for individuals as part of our Awards for Individuals and five for organisations as part of our Awards for Organisations. 

Nominees and winners for National Awards will be invited to our special Awards Ceremony, held in February as part of the RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show weekend.

Hear from a past winner

Headteacher Sandra Hartley was awarded an RYA Impact Award for her dedication to helping more young people get access to sailing through her outdoor programme at Hollingworth Lake. Watch our video to see her receive her award and hear how much it meant to her.