Cramond Boat Club volunteer Andrew Pratt has received Scottish and national RYA honours for his longstanding work helping people learn and enjoy sailing.
Some of a club’s most important figures are the people who keep turning up to help others. Andrew Pratt, known as Drew at Cramond Boat Club, has been recognised by RYA Scotland and the wider association for more than forty years of service.
The awards include an Impact Award and a national Unsung Hero honour. They acknowledge teaching and community involvement rather than one recent racing result.
A connection to boats began early
Pratt’s story includes family boating in the 1950s and work on a restored Shetland fishing boat. Those experiences led into sailing and an interest in passing knowledge to others.
He joined the RYA in 1967 and moved into instruction at Tighnabruaich Sailing School. His involvement continued across many seasons.
Teaching is a lasting contribution
A patient instructor can shape whether someone enjoys their first experience or feels overwhelmed. Repeated club support also helps a community adapt as new members arrive.
An award recognises a specific person, but no club functions without other helpers. Knowledge needs to be shared so the next group can carry the work forward.
A life built around the water
A small rowing dinghy can be the start of an activity that lasts for decades. The progression need not involve owning increasingly large craft.
For LBG readers, Pratt’s recognition is a portrait of the people behind grassroots boating. Time given to another sailor may have an influence far beyond one lesson.
Source
Royal Yachting Association