Ben and Jono Shelley have received recognition from RYA Scotland for helping other sailors develop, using racing and youth participation to widen opportunities around the Clyde.
An established sailing crew can influence far more people than those who share its boat on race day. Brothers Ben and Jono Shelley have been recognised by RYA Scotland for the opportunities they have helped create around Clyde sailing.
The pair received an Impact Award earlier in 2026, with the association highlighting their work with developing sailors. The recognition reflects community involvement alongside their own competition record.
Success provides a platform to share skills
Their racing history includes success in the J/109 fleet and the 2025 Fastnet Race, while their Clyde-based boat Mocking-J is part of the wider story. The award places emphasis on how experienced sailors support others rather than results alone.
For newcomers, a chance to crew can teach boat handling and teamwork without the cost of ownership. That makes established owners and active clubs important gateways into the sport.
Youth development depends on people
The RYA identifies youth development and class association work among the brothers’ contributions. Those commitments involve time and organisation that may be invisible to spectators following a race result.
Helping a young sailor understand a manoeuvre or take part in an event can strengthen confidence over several seasons. The same principle applies in dinghy fleets where volunteers help children move from lessons to regular club activity.
Sharing access has a lasting effect
A single invitation afloat may lead to training, club membership or greater involvement in a sailing community. It also allows people to see whether the activity suits them before committing financially.
For LBG readers, the Shelley story is about the value of mentorship on the water. Competition can provide the setting, but a welcoming route for new participants is the larger community benefit.
Source
Royal Yachting Association