Solent student, Jessye Opoku-Ware wins again!

A true inspiration in youth sailing, Jessye Opoku-Ware was awarded the 2024 YJA Young Sailor of the Year for his outstanding contributions to the Scaramouche Sailing Trust and Greig City Academy Sailing Programme. Jessye was the 2024 Cowes Week Youth Trophy joint winner and has played a pivotal role in coaching younger sailors, encouraging diversity in sailing, and facilitating opportunities for young sailors – especially through the establishment of a girls’ team at the RSYC doublehanded event. His dedication to introducing sailing to schools and clubs has made a significant impact on youth participation in the sport.

On receiving his award, Jessye said: “I feel ecstatic; it’s something I’ve always wanted to win. I want to thank everyone who has been part of the journey; there are a lot of people who have helped all of us make this happen. I just want to give back to the Scaramouche Sailing Trust and Greig City Academy Sailing Programme – that was my whole plan with coaching, and I am grateful to be rewarded for it. I’m just here to have fun, sailing is so enjoyable.”

Katy Stickland, Chair of the YJA, praised the winners: “The YJA Awards celebrate the very best in sailing, and the nominees and winners showcase a remarkable 2024 for British sailing. This year is the YJA’s 70th year; it is also 70 years since we awarded the first Yachtsman of the Year Award to one Eric Hiscock for his round the world voyage with his wife, Susan on their famous yacht, Wanderer. Given the incredible achievements, each YJA Young Sailor of the Year nominee received a certificate. These sailors were nominated by the public before YJA members voted for the winners. If you see a rising talented sailor in your club, do not forget to nominate them for next year. We are proud to honour them all.”

Jessye says, "I won this award through being the backbone and spine of the sailing programme as my crew members went on to pursue other parts of the sailing industry, leaving me to coach the younger generation and help them reach competitive levels. My support also gave the girls' crew a chance to sail competitively with me on the boat coaching.

This award is in addition to the award I won earlier in December as that was voted for by the public and is called the Sailing Today Young sailor of the Year, whereas this award the YJA Young sailor of the Year is voted on by journalists who have vast knowledge on the sport.

It's a very prestigious award and I'm proud I've been selected to win it and build from this."

Congratulations Jessye, another incredible achievement!

Read the full story from 'All at Sea' here

Read about Jessye's previous successes here and here