A Swansea sailor has been presented with the RYA’s (Royal Yachting Association) most prestigious award by HRH the Princess Royal, President of the RYA at the organisation’s annual awards ceremony held in London.

This year, for the first time, an RYA Honorary Life Membership Award was presented to Eddie Ramsden MBE for his extraordinary and unique contribution to sailing for the last 30 years. Eddie has previously worked as Chairman of the Welsh Yachting Association and is now currently serving on the RYA Paralympic Steering Group.

The Association’s highest award is given to those individuals who have made an extraordinary and unique contribution to the Association’s mission.  Eddie Ramsden has made just such a contribution over the last 30 years.

Not only is it rare to find individuals who spend upwards of 30 years giving their time to the work of the Association in a voluntary capacity, this Award to Eddie recognises both the quantity and the quality of his contribution.

In the 1980’s Eddie successively served as Secretary, Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the Welsh Yachting Association.  He then moved on to Chair the Training Committee following which he became the Deputy Chairman from 2001 – 2004 and Chairman from 2004 – 2007.

He is currently a member of the Council and serves on the RYA Paralympic Steering Group.  He Chaired the Working Party that successfully moved the RYA from somewhat old fashioned premises in Eastleigh to modern, purpose built facilities.

As Chairman, he was a moderniser, a great believer in letting the Managers “manage” and helped to streamline the decision making processes of a very broad church.  Inspired by a great enthusiasm for the sport for which he cares so deeply, Eddie will be remembered for his wisdom and his outstanding ability to tackle difficult issues.

A total of 49 voluntary awards were presented to winners from across the UK from as far afield as the Isle of Wight to County Antrim.

Rod Carr, RYA Chief Executive, said, “The RYA is delighted to make these awards in recognition of Eddie’s enthusiasm and promotion of our sport and many years contributing to the British sailing scene.

“Every one of the Award winners has exceeded the reasonable expectations of their fellow volunteers, club members and the boating community in general and the amount of work they put in is outstanding.

“These people are an inspiration to us all and it is my pleasure to recognise and celebrate their sheer hard work and commitment through these awards.

“The work and voluntary time that all 49 RYA winners put into our sport is simply outstanding and it is my pleasure to recognise and celebrate this through these awards.”

Ramsden and the other RYA Award winners enjoyed a celebratory lunch in the presence of HRH the Princess Royal, and were presented with a commemorative medallion and certificate.

For further media information:
Hamish Stuart,
RYA Wales regional communicator
Tel: 07914 873451
Email: Hamish@score-media.co.uk