A LOCAL sailor has been recognised on the national stage after receiving a prestigious award from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) for her outstanding contribution to the sport.
Ann Roy was named Technical Official of the Year by the RYA, an honour that acknowledges her work in race management across Scotland and at international events.
Ann, is Scotlands only female National Race Officer, a role in which she has built a strong reputation for professionalism, leadership and dedication. Her work has seen her become a familiar and highly respected figure at sailing events ranging from local regattas to world championships.
During the 2024-25 season alone, she officiated at eight major events, including the RYA Scotland Winter Championships, Topper Nationals, Flying Fifteen Nationals, 49er Nationals and the RYA Youth National Championships. On the international stage, she also played key roles at the Techno World Championships, Raceboard Master Worlds and the Womens Offshore Keelboat Championship.
Across those events, Ann helped deliver more than 180 races involving over 700 boats and boards, with more than 650 sailors taking part.
Speaking after receiving the award, Ann admitted she was surprised by the recognition.
She said: “I was shocked, I couldnt believe it. When you look at the depth and breadth across Scotland, and little me from the West Coast has won something on a national stage.
“I get a lot of satisfaction out of delivering fair, good racing. That in itself is great.”
Anns expertise covers several officiating roles, including Principal Race Officer, Course Race Officer, Deputy Race Officer and Assistant Race Officer. Her responsibilities range from managing youth windsurfing fleets to overseeing offshore keelboat racing.
She has also recently passed her International Race Officer exam, taking a significant step towards becoming Scotlands first International Race Officer.
The achievement marks another milestone in a sailing career that has not only taken Ann to major competitions around the world but has also helped break down barriers in a role traditionally dominated by men, inspiring more women and girls to consider officiating in the sport.
