Royal Ulster Yacht Club volunteer Roy Flannigan has been named the first ever recipient of the RYA NI Impact Award, recognising more than 50 years of dedication to sailing across the island of Ireland.

The award was presented by RYA Northern Ireland Chair Gavin Watson during a special presentation at Royal Ulster Yacht Club, surrounded by Roy’s family, friends and members of the sailing community.

For decades, Roy has played an important role behind the scenes in helping sailing events happen. From supporting dinghy fleets his family raced in, to volunteering on committee boats and at batteries during local and national events, his contribution has become a familiar and valued part of the sport.

In more recent years, Roy has become especially well known at Royal Ulster Yacht Club, where he has volunteered consistently every Thursday night for the past 25 years.

The RYA NI Impact Award has been introduced to recognise individuals who make a lasting contribution to sailing through volunteering, dedication and service to their clubs and communities. Roy’s recognition highlights the enormous impact volunteers continue to have across the sport in Northern Ireland.

Watch the Interview

Hear from Roy Flannigan on what the award means to him, alongside reflections from his grandson Rory Flannigan, RUYC Honorary Club Secretary, and Gavin Watson, Chair of RYA Northern Ireland.

The video captures not only Roy’s contribution to sailing, but also the respect and appreciation held for him within the sailing community.

As clubs across Northern Ireland continue to rely on volunteers to keep activities, racing and training running successfully, Roy’s story serves as a reminder of the people working quietly behind the scenes who help make the sport possible week after week, year after year.

How Can You Nominate Someone In Your Club?

Every sailing club has people who quietly keep things moving. The volunteers who arrive early, stay late, help others, organise events, fix problems and give their time year after year without asking for recognition.

The RYA NI Impact Awards have been created to celebrate those people and shine a light on the individuals making a real difference within sailing across Northern Ireland.

If there is someone in your club or sailing community who deserves recognition for their contribution, nominations are now open.

https://www.rya.org.uk/news/rya-northern-ireland-impact-awards-nominations-now-open/