Exe Sailing Club were crowned RYA Club of the Year 2010 at the Volvo Dinghy Show 2010.

The Devon-based sailing club were picked as winners from five strong finalists; Bury Lake Young Mariners, Donaghadee Sailing Club, Spinnaker Sailing Club and Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club.

The shortlisted sailing clubs were selected by an awards panel who judged them on how well they encouraged people to get out on the water, the range of quality and safe activities provided and how well they managed to engage with the local community.

With a full membership and a current waiting list, Exe Sailing Club immediately stood out to the awards panel. They offer a year-round racing and training programme for both dinghies and cruisers as well a wide range of social activities for their club members including a Christmas pantomime.

Jackie Bennetts, who coordinates the RYA Club of the Year explains: “The success of this Exe Sailing Club is down to their ability to attract and maintain a well qualified and motivated band of volunteers. They are an excellent example of a club which can offer fantastic and safe activities both in the water and at their club. They are very worthy winners of this award.”

Exe Sailing Club’s vice commodore Rex Frost says: “We are delighted to have won this award and still can’t quite believe it. There are some fantastic sailing clubs out there, and to be named the best in country is an overwhelming achievement

“Our club members will be over the moon and we can’t wait to go and celebrate with them,” he added.

See pictures from the RYA Club of the Year 2010 awards.

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