Helen and Richard Jenner receive RYA Scotland Impact Award

Helen and Richard Jenner receive RYA Scotland Impact Award © RYA Scotland

Married couple Helen and Richard Jenner have been awarded an RYA Scotland Impact Award, in recognition of their wide ranging and longstanding contributions at Chanonry Sailing Club.

The deserving pair were presented with the award at the club's AGM in December, with an overwhelming response from onlookers making clear the extent of their impact.

For many years, Helen and Richard have been invaluable to Chanonry Sailing Club, taking on a wide range of roles to ensure the smooth running and ongoing success of the club on and off the water.

Their contributions have been instrumental in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for sailors of all ages and abilities.

Richard has played a key role in coaching and training, sharing his expertise to develop sailors and improve overall standards at the club. His dedication to instructing and mentoring new members has helped to create a thriving sailing community. Meanwhile, Helen has been pivotal in ensuring a steady flow of trained Powerboat drivers, issuing nearly 100 certificates during her time as Chief Powerboat Instructor, entirely to club members. Together, their teamwork and commitment have made a lasting impact on the club's growth and development.

Describing their input, Chanonry Sailing Club secretary Marisa Astill-Brown said:

"Almost anything we do at the club, somewhere in the background one of the Jenners have been associated with it... they've taken on so many roles between them, from Commodores, to social secretaries, to sailing secretaries. They've been just about everything on the committee."

And the Jenner's efforts have extended beyond the club itself, with the pair actively contributing to conversations across the wider Scottish boating community, strengthening community ties.

A testament not only to the Jenner's unwavering dedication and passion for the sport, this award also highlights the essential role of volunteers across the Scottish Sailing community.

Put simply by Chanonry Sailing Club Treasurer David Finlayson:

"If we don't have volunteers, we can't run. I hope the Jenners can be seen as examples and encourage people to stand up and take a role."

Reiterating this message, club members at Chanonry's AGM were eager to express their deep appreciation for the Jenners' dedication, emphasising the lasting impact they have made over the years.

Their legacy at Chanonry Sailing Club is well established, and this award serves as a well-earned acknowledgment of their invaluable contributions.

As Chanonry Sailing Club looks to the future, Helen and Richard's contributions will undoubtedly continue to inspire others to get involved and support the sailing community.