The widower of the late member Sue McDonnell has presented the National Yacht Club with a new perpetual trophy in her memory that will be recognise excellence in women’s sailing.

In agreement with her family and the NYC club committee, the Sue McDonnell Trophy will be awarded to the female club member who has contributed most to the advancement of women in sailing.

The NYC says the new award is timely as the club was selected to host the inaugural Irish Sailing Pathfinder Women at the Helm Regatta this year, and has been reconfirmed as host club in 2020.

Sue McDonnell who joined the club in 2002 when she and John Hall bought their Beneteau 31.7, 30 Something.

In 2007, having sold the Beneteau, she also co-owned the very successful J109 Something Else until her untimely death in 2014.

Sue started sailing out of Bray Sailing Club in the early 1960 and was for many years, and still is, a role model for gender equality and active women participation in our sport.

To nominate a fellow member for the new Sue McDonnell Trophy, or for any other existing Club Sailing Award, click HERE. The deadline for nominations has been extended to next Friday 29 November.