Significant contributors to the sport

At the 2022 World Sailing Mid-Year Meeting, held May 26-29 in Abu Dhabi, the world governing body recognized two significant contributors to the sport of sailing. John Doerr (GBR) was awarded the Beppe Croce Trophy with Andrea Camin (ITA) receiving the President’s Development Award.

World Sailing’s prestigious award, the Beppe Croce Trophy, is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding voluntary contribution to the sport of sailing. In memory of Beppe Croce, the World Sailing President from 1969-1986, the Federazione Italiana Vela presented the Trophy to the World Sailing, and it was awarded for the first time in 1988.

Doerr has been involved in sailing since 1964, when he started competing as a schoolboy before becoming Wayfarer World Champion in 1974. As an International Judge, Umpire, and Jury Member, he has officiated at the highest level including Olympic Games, America’s Cups, World Championships, World Cups, and Paralympic Games since 1988, and served as a member of several World Sailing Committees throughout his illustrious career.

Initiated in 2007, the President’s Development Award recognizes those who strive to grow and develop sailing either nationally or internationally.

As President of the Fraglia Vela Riva Yacht Club, Camin was recognized for the success of the Lake Garda Optimist Meeting. Located in in northern Italy, the event has been providing opportunities for young sailors to race each other since 1982. The event is still going strong with the 40th edition of the race welcoming over 1,000 sailors from 34 nations.