Award nomination for '˜maritime hero' sailors

Eighty-year-old Terry Windsor, Ryan Seaton, aged 23, and joint entry 18-year-old Hannah Blair and Loughlan Duggan, 23 have been nominated by Carrickfergus Sailing Club for their outstanding club service, sailing achievements and bravery.

They are four of 30 national semi-finalists selected from entries from across the United Kingdom in the Old Pulteney Maritime Heroes Awards.

The annual awards competition was established to reward the outstanding passion, commitment and achievements demonstrated within Britain’s maritime communities, at both a local and national level. Sailing clubs were invited to nominate any members they felt deserved recognition within one of the following three categories: Club Service, Bravery or Sailing Achievement.

Terry Winsdor has been a member of Carrick Sailing Club for over 60 years. He has held numerous roles including commodore. Terry currently holds the role of Chief Race Officer.

Last month, Terry received an award from the Royal Yaching Association for his lifelong commitment to the sport.

Meanwhile, Ryan Seaton was nominated in the Sailing Achievements category.

Ryan has competed in races all over the world, including both the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games.

Hannah Blair and Loughlan Duggan were nominated for their bravery. They volunteer on the safety team at Carrickfergus Sailing Club as rescue boat drivers and crew members.

During a recent keelboat race, Hannah and Loughlan came to the rescue in the club’s displacement boat after a competitor hit a reef. They held the damaged yacht in position for over 30 minutes until the RNLI arrived. Hannah and Loughlin’s quick thinking and bravery meant that the yacht and crew were rescued safely.