Laura Gilmore from Strangford Lough Yacht Club was presented with the prestigious RYA Northern Ireland Young Sailor of the Year Award 2011 at the Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show on Saturday (07 January 2012).

The award recognises the outstanding achievements of youth sailors across the country.

“I was delighted when I found out I had won the award and felt very honoured when I received my trophy at the presentation” said Laura.

“I have been sailing all my life, and competed in my first Topper event at the age of eight at my local club. I love sailing because it’s so much fun and I'm really competitive! I've made so many friends through it and I love the challenges that it presents”.

Laura was voted RYA Northern Ireland Regional Young Sailor of the Year 2011 last autumn for her outstanding achievements in 2011 including finishing 1^st female and 6^th out of 274 competitors in the British Nationals. Two weeks later she was crowned Female World Champion when she finished 5^th overall in a fleet of 175 sailors. Laura’s 2011 achievements also include first place finishes in the Topper Ulster Championships and the Topper Munster Championships.

Laura was amongst fifteen RYA Regional Young Sailor of the Year winners who are voted for by RYA affiliated sailing clubs. These young sailors have made a significant impact on youth sailing, ranging from gold medal winning achievements and overcoming adversity, to the huge amount of hard work and effort they give back to their clubs.

Laura and family were treated to an action packed VIP day at the show, thanks to Pantaenius Yacht Insurance.

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For more information contact:

Susie Nation-Grainger

RYA Press Office

Tel: 02380 604208

Email: susie.nationgrainger@rya.org.uk

www.rya.org.uk