Issue date
Promoting sailing as a sport for everyone; Bob Davies recognised for services to Wanganui Yacht Club
Bob Davies is passionate about developing sailors from all backgrounds and ages within the Wanganui region.
Named as another Yachting New Zealand Service award winner for 2016, the Wanganui Yacht Club life member, treasurer and junior sailing coordinator is tireless in his efforts to support and promote activities at the club and in his community.
Appreciation for his involvement is reflected in Bob’s nomination which outlines the huge impact he has had with young sailors, not only within the club but throughout the community in the schools programme he has supported for 16 years.
In the last five years alone more than 1500 students have gone through the programme which provides week-long coaching classes during the summer season, generating revenue upwards of $20,000 for the club. Each year Bob coordinates with the local intermediate schools to organise the programme, as well as an end-of-term competition where a trophy is awarded to the top school team. Further to this is his time spent promoting sailing in secondary schools where he works alongside Sport Wanganui.
His dedication to fundraise for the club including efforts in numerous grant applications has helped the club to purchase rescue craft, optimists, starlings, lasers, and more recently six open Bic class yachts, as well as major club room projects where Bob is also seen often lending a hand.
Promotion is a big part of his philosophy in keeping young sailors engaged and encouraged, with photos taken on and off the water being posted directly to the clubs facebook page for all to enjoy and be inspired. Having attended many YNZ courses in race management and coaching, Bob also recognises the need to develop coaches in the area to support more sailors coming through. He has organised courses to be run at Wanganui with this in mind, giving club coaches the opportunity to gain qualifications.
A firm believer in sailing as a sport for everyone, Bob is also the man behind Sailability Wanganui. Formed in 2013/14 following fundraising efforts and the establishment of the trust, Bob is eager to give disabled people the opportunity to experience the sport he loves.
Yachting New Zealand thanks Bob for his enthusiasm and drive to support the club in whatever way he can, and spreading the joy of sailing throughout the region.
