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Powerboater sails towards top award


By Louise Shaw

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Jamie Paterson, Powerboat, Powerboating, Royal Yachting Association Scotland, RYA Honda Youth Challenge
Jamie Paterson, Powerboat, Powerboating, Royal Yachting Association Scotland, RYA Honda Youth Challenge

A FINDHORN powerboat star has been shortlisted for a prize at a national awards.

Jamie Paterson (15) has been nominated for Young Person of the Year at the Royal Yachting Association Scotland awards for his achievements afloat over 2018.

The youngster has won three rigid inflatable boats (Ribs) through the Honda RYA Youth RIB initiative winning the UK finals again last year, setting some of the fastest times in the events history.

Jamie started out at an early age thanks to his father Simon, an advanced powerboat instructor at Findhorn Marina.

He encouraged Jamie to get involved in water-based activities with his main jacket being his life jacket over the years but it was Rib driving that really took his interest.

By the age of 10 and in his first competition he won the Scottish heat in 2014 and went on to win his first UK title in 2014, then again in 2016.

Jamie said: "To win the RYA Honda Youth Challenge again was fantastic and to be nominated for this award is unreal.

"I love being in charge of a boat and being competent at it.

"Anyone can join in regardless of experience. I had none at age eight, however through the friendship of others I have learned loads and I would happily help anyone train and practice for next year's competition."

Now in its 12th year, the RYA Scotland Awards looks to find those individuals and clubs who have enriched the experience of getting afloat. Whether they have a formal role as an official or the supporting role of coach or instructor who have inspired and helped people get more from their time afloat.

The awards are sponsored by Ocean Sailing Scotland and Glenn Porter, principal skipper said: "RYA Scotland works hard to promote boating and protect the interests of all boaters, not just its members, over many disciplines within the sport.

"We at Ocean Sailing Scotland are proud to support this great way to recognise not only those who achieve but also those individuals and organisations who contribute to an amazing sport."

The winners will be announced on January 19 at an awards evening in Inverkip.



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