Impact Awards for volunteer windsurf instructors

Windsurfers who give their time to support activities at Windswept Watersports in Pembrokeshire have been presented with Welsh Sailing Impact Awards.

Volunteer instructors David Picker, Bob Jones, Leslie Burton and Graham Smith have all been recognised for their commitment to encouraging the next generation of windsurfers at the community watersports centre in Dale.

The dedicated team has played an essential role in supporting the Windswept Warriors youth windsurfing club since its launch more than four years ago.

Sarah Bagley, Director of Windswept Watersports, said: “A huge congratulations to our windsurf volunteers on being chosen for Impact Awards - Bob, Leslie, Graham and Dave have supported us so much by making our Windsurf Warrior sessions happen every week, they couldn't deserve this more!

“They have made a huge impact in making the club what it is today. We are able to grow the club’s numbers and keep the costs down due to them giving up their Sundays. Since the club started they have been so enthusiastic about inspiring the next generation of windsurfers and their passion for the sport really is infectious! The club have gone on to win medals at windsurfing national championships and none of this would have happened without our superstar volunteers!”

Windswept Watersports is a Not-For-Profit organisation which aims to make activities accessible for all, including delivering outreach sessions to local schools, youth and community groups, and running a variety of clubs encouraging local people to enjoy getting on the water.

The Windswept Warriors group enables young people aged 10-19 to learn the sport and take their skills to the next level, with Sunday morning sessions for just £10 a go, including all equipment and tuition thanks to its volunteer instructors.

Impact Awardee Leslie said: “I didn’t start windsurfing until my late 30s so I really love helping the juniors to progress. It’s great to see their confidence grow by just having fun on (and in) the water. We just love sharing our sport with youngsters and seeing the enjoyment they get from it, whether that’s improving and progressing their skills or just having a go occasionally.”

Explaining their enthusiasm for giving back to the sport, fellow Impact Awardee Graham said: “I have had some fantastic times and met amazing people while windsurfing and by volunteering I get the opportunity to give those chances to others. I also love it when I see people progress and what it means to them.”

Award-winning team members Bob and Dave likewise sum up the satisfaction and rewards of seeing young windsurfers progress from beginner to intermediate to themselves becoming instructors. Bob said: “I love coaching the junior club, seeing their progression week by week, especially those big ‘Hallelujah, I did it’ moments. I am super proud to be a colleague of Windswept’s young instructors who were part of the junior crew not so far back.”  Dave added: “I love seeing kids enjoy getting on the water and learning so fast on our Windsurf Warriors sessions. My favourite experience is seeing new windsurfers get planning the first time.”

Welsh Sailing Impact Awards are presented by RYA Cymru Wales to recognise the hard work of individuals and organisations who go the extra mile to support activities afloat, in line with the governing body’s Together on our Waters strategy to create a connected, inspired and inclusive sailing and boating community.

Hester Walker, Club Development Officer for RYA Cymru Wales, said: “This team commit a huge amount of time to supporting the youth windsurfers at Windswept Watersports. Their time allows for the training to be offered at a lower rate, helping to remove the barrier of cost and enabling more young people to get on the water. Dale has become one of the most active windsurfing communities thanks to Windswept Watersports and the fantastic support of these volunteers.”

Find out more about activities at the centre at Windswept Watersports for All.

Do you know an individual or organisation deserving of recognition? Nominations for the awards are open all year round. Visit Welsh Sailing Impact Awards.