Photo: Mark Brooks (right) receiving his award from RYA Chairman, Eddie Ramsden MBE.

Britain's best instructors, coaches and trainers were recognised at the RYA Coach and Instructor of the Year Awards at the RYA Dinghy Sailing Show, Alexandra Palace last weekend (Saturday 4 March). The Awards recognise those who have shown outstanding commitment, skill and hard work in training others.

The RYA introduced these prestigious awards to acknowledge the importance of instructors and coaches within the sailing community. Hosted by David Ritchie, RYA National Sailing Coach and presented by Eddie Ramsden, RYA Chairman, eleven individuals from all aspects of boating, from powerboating and dinghy sailing to windsurfing, were recognised.

Mark Brooks from Hythe & Saltwood Sailing Club received the Windsurfing T15 Award for his hard work, support and dedication to the T15 youth initiative. Having recently led his team to victory at the first ever T15 National Championships, the Hythe Hotshots captain was delighted to have won the award.

The second windsurfing award was presented to David Mckay from East Kilbride Sailing Club, who received the Windsurfing Instructor of the Year Award. As a college Lecturer in Sport and Fitness as well as a windsurfing coach for eight years (including T15), David brings a wealth of coaching expertise to the world of windsurfing.

For a full list of winners including those who received dinghy sailing and powerboat awards, visit the RYA website.

Nominations for next  year's awards will be open soon, so make sure you reward the hard work and dedication of your T15 coach and put them forward for an award.