British yachtswoman Sam Davies crowned YJA Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year
British solo yachtswoman Sam Davies won the coveted title of YJA Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year for 2009.
British yachtswoman Sam Davies crowned YJA Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year
The announcement was made at an awards ceremony held at Trinity House, London. Portsmouth born Sam, now based in Concarneau, France, was first placed Briton in the French Vendée Globe 2008/09 singlehanded non-stop round the world race in her Open 60 yacht ‘Roxy’ . The 36 year old was the first woman, finishing third overall. Recently she completed the Transat Jacque Vabre transatlantic race, finishing 10th with team mate Sidney Gavignet. She was also nominated for the ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Award last year.
The other finalists for the YJA Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year award were Paul Goodison, World Laser champion, Olympic Gold medallist and five times European champion, and Ian Williams, the two times World Match Race champion.
Paul (32),is the only sailor worldwide to hold all three event titles at the same time and was also nominated for the ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Award. Ian Williams (32) became the first British National to be crowned Match Racing World champion in the event’s 19 year history. He won the title in 2007 and again in 2008 – A name to watch for in future America’s Cup events.
The trophy was presented by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, himself a three times winner of the award.