From Creator to Recipient: Impact Award Honoree Celebrated for Extensive Contributions
Marc Turner: A Recognized Contributor to Scottish Sailing Community
RYA Scotland’s Impact Awards celebrate outstanding commitment within the Scottish sailing community, and Marc Turner is a remarkable recipient of this recognition.
Marc has dedicated many years to volunteering within the Scottish boating community and was a valued member of the RYA Scotland staff team until May this year. Even after moving on, his passion for sailing remains strong, and he continues to make a difference.
His extensive knowledge of the Scottish boating landscape, combined with his skills as a professional photographer and a proactive attitude, has enabled him to positively impact numerous organizations over the decades.
From his early experiences as a dinghy sailor to his volunteer role on the RYA Scotland performance committee, Marc has been instrumental at Largs Sailing Club and in supporting initiatives such as the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. Carolyn Elder of Largs Yacht Haven praised his unwavering dedication, stating, “Nothing is too much effort for Marc; he gives 110% to Scottish sailing, Largs sailing, or any event he’s involved in.”
Frank Fletcher, CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, acknowledged Marc’s valuable contributions, saying, “From the beginning of the Trust being based in Largs, Marc has been essential and has generously shared his time and enthusiasm.”
Marc’s commitment to volunteering extends beyond the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust; he has also worked with the Thomas Lipton Foundation and gained insights from Andrew Simpson Centres to enhance sailing opportunities for a wider audience.
Additionally, Marc is a passionate advocate for sustainability, promoting initiatives like The Green Blue, which encourages eco-friendly practices and electric motoring in boating activities.
Interestingly, the RYA Scotland Impact Award program is a direct result of Marc’s innovative ideas during his tenure at RYA, highlighting his dedication to recognizing the efforts of others in the sailing community.
Upon receiving his own Impact Award, Marc expressed his gratitude: “These awards signify to people the impact they have made. I’m deeply touched. To all the team I’ve collaborated with and all the volunteers—thank you. They are the ones truly making an impact.”
If you’re inspired by Marc’s story and want to dive into sailing, explore the RYA Activity Finder to discover local courses available near you.
You can also watch more inspiring stories from the RYA Impact Awards on YouTube.
If you know someone deserving of recognition, nominations are open now.
Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.