Impact Award creator turned recipient recognised for wide ranging contribution

RYA Scotland Impact Award recipient Marc Turner © RYA Scotland

RYA Scotland Impact Awards are designed to recognise exceptional commitment within the Scottish sailing community. Commitment is certainly a word that applies to Marc Turner, the latest award recipient.

A longstanding volunteer within the Scottish boating community, Marc has also been - until May this year - a valued member of the RYA Scotland staff team.

Having now moved on to pastures new in his work life, it's evident that Marc is still never too far from a boat.

With his contribution to the sailing community spanning many decades and many organisations, Marc's extensive knowledge of the Scottish boating landscape has merged with his skills as a professional photographer, leveraging his can-do attitude, and maximising positive impact.

You can find out more about Marc's impact here:

From his early days as a dinghy sailor, to joining the RYA Scotland performance committee as a volunteer, to capturing endless moments on camera at Largs Sailing Club, to skippering for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust - Marc's impact is without doubt wide ranging.

Speaking on the Impact he's had at Largs specifically, Carolyn Elder of Largs Yacht Haven commented:

"Nothing is too much effort for Marc, he just gives 110% to Scottish sailing, Largs sailing, or any event he's involved in.

"And we also mustn't forget how much volunteering he does for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust."

Acknowledging this voluntary contribution, Ellen MacArthur CEO Frank Fletcher said:

"From the beginning of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust being based in Largs, taking young people sailing from our northern based, Marc has been so important and has given his time, enthusiasm, and has introduced us to people.

"I'd like to say a big thank you and congratulations from everyone at the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust."

With his voluntary portfolio ever increasing, out with his formal employment with RYA Scotland, the dedication which runs throughout all of Marc's efforts is clear to see.

In addition to his involvement with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Marc has also been involved with the Thomas Lipton Foundation, and has taken learnings from Andrew Simpson Centres south of the border - with his passion for delivering sailing to more people from more backgrounds shining through.

Marc is also a passionate advocate for sustainability, championing initiatives like The Green Blue, promoting electric motoring, and encouraging simple positive changes we can all make while boating.

Topically, it's thanks to Marc the RYA Scotland Impact Award program exists, with the concept being one of his ideas during his time within the RYA staff team.

On receiving his very own Impact Award, Marc said:

"These are a nice little marker to let people know they've had an Impact, and that's certainly let me know I've made an Impact today.

"I'm touched, thank you very much. To all the team I've worked with, and all the volunteers - thank you. They're all the people who make the impact, and if I've reflected that in a few pictures, or through a few ideas, then that just spreads that wider."

If you fancy giving sailing a try, why not use the RYA Activity Finder to see what courses are running near you.

And, if you've been inspired by today's story - you can watch more of the RYA Impact Awards over on YouTube.

Know someone you think deserves one? Nominations are open now.