Blackwater Sailing Club's Charlie Dixon and Callum Marshall shine at East Anglian Maritime Awards
by Gay Ayton 17 May 14:18 BST
The Blackwater Sailing Club are proud to announce that two members, Charlie Dixon and Callum Marshall have been honoured in the proficiency category of East Anglian Maritime Awards 2024 (EAMA).
Created following the success of the Parade of Boats during the late Queen's Jubilee celebrations in 2022, the EAMA honour and celebrate the maritime heritage of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex. With a focus on nurturing the maritime spirit among the youth, the awards recognise excellence across four categories: conservation, proficiency, resilience, and water safety.
Charlie Dixon aged 19 has an impressive list of achievements with numerous championship wins and awards including: UK Windsurfer of the Year 2023, Young Sailor of the Year 2023 and in 2022 he was Youth National IQFoil Champion, iQFoil Youth European Champion, iQFoil International Games Gold Medallist, iQFoil World Champion and World Sailing Official Youth World Champion.
His EAMA award now recognises his dedication and willingness to inspire and mentor fellow sailors despite facing his own challenges including injury setbacks and exemplifies the true spirit of maritime camaraderie.
Cadet Callum Marshall aged just 12 and another rising star, has a string of Optimist achievements to his name from regional training squad selection to podium finishes in national championships. His journey illustrates the essence of talent and perseverance in the maritime arena.
Sheena Berney, Vice-Commodore, the Blackwater Sailing Club, said: "This is a fantastic attainment for both Charlie and Callum and a wonderful testament to their passion, determination and unwavering commitment at such an age is so impressive. We heartily congratulate our young stars."
Distinguished guests from the maritime community attended the EAMA Award ceremony hosted by The Blackwater Sailing Club. They included representatives from sailing clubs, HM Coastguard, Sea Cadets and renowned personalities trans-ocean rower Dawn Wood and Olympic sailor Rob White. Roy Clare, the EAMA chairman gave a warm welcome whilst Mrs Jenny Tolhurst, The Lord-Lieutenant highlighted the importance of maritime excellence in Essex and Jasmin Klimcke, an EAMA youth ambassador echoed the award's inspirational value to Essex's young generation. Sarah West CEO of Harwich Haven Authority a key sponsor of the EAMAs emphasised the significance of the awards in fostering community spirit and maritime excellence.
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