Young sailors awarded boats and boards

The John Merricks Sailing Trust has donated boats and boards to 14 young people from across the UK.

Launched in 2013, the partnership through RYA OnBoard aims to support youngsters who display enthusiasm and talent for sailing, and who may not ordinarily have the opportunity or financial backing to achieve their goals.

Two years ago, Martha Sargeant joined Ullswater Yacht Club with her mum and brother so they could enjoy being in the outdoors together. The family learnt to sail in one of the club’s old Toppers, and since then, Martha’s confidence and love for the water has grown. She’s watched her friends prepare for their competitions and spends as much time as she can at club, at weekends and after school.

“Sailing on Ullswater with my friends is my absolute favourite thing to do,” says Sargeant. “I’m so excited to have my own boat to use so now I can improve my sailing, learn to race and hopefully go to events!”

Tahir Mohammed has been awarded a Bic Techno to improve his windsurfing at Burton Sailing Club after discovering the sport during a sailing session. After persuading his mum to sign him up for a course, Tahir has since joined the club and taken part in competitions. 

“The first time I saw someone windsurfing was during my sailing course. When I saw people confidently take to the board and whizz past me with only their skill and balance to support them. I was mesmerised and knew I would love windsurfing,” he says.

“I’m over the moon to have been selected for a JMST Award. I only discovered windsurfing this year but already have high aspirations. I love being on the water, competing, but most of all having fun.”

As OnBoard’s official charity partner, JMST has donated over £300,000 worth of funding through the scheme to date.

Recently, JMST announced their intention to dissolve the charity. The remaining funds will be applied to a purpose that will continue to honour the memory of John Merricks, and the Trust says its residual funds will be gifted to one or more organisations that can provide a legacy that will continue the Trust’s objective to help young people achieve their potential through the sport of sailing.

Despite this news, the JMST and OnBoard partnership will continue for another two years. 

Hannah Cockle, RYA OnBoard operations officer, says: “We cannot thank the JMST enough for continuing to support the programme. From the many success stories and updates that we receive here at the RYA from past recipients, I know that the scheme makes a huge difference to the recipients and their future lives on the water.”

Details on how to apply for the 2022 JMST and OnBoard partnership will be issued soon.

The young sailors and windsurfers were selected from over 50 nominations and the 2021 winners are: