Josh Porter, Newtownards Sailing Club GP14 Fleet Captain, is the first recipient of a Richard Estaugh Bursary.
The 'Richard Estaugh Fund' was established from the sale of GP14 14000 which was donated by the late Richard Estaugh. Richard was not only a much respected sail-maker, boat-builder and multiple championship winner, but also a truly great ambassador for the sport of Sailing and the GP14 Class in particular. The fund was created in perpetual memory of Richard and the huge contribution that he made to the GP Class.
The Bursary is aimed in particular at young sailors from the GP14 International class but any GP sailor can apply for assistance from the fund to go towards the cost of worthwhile sailing related projects. These can take many forms such as participation in training/coaching programmes, championship campaigns, a cruising challenge or sailing expedition, providing assistance or ‘buddying’ for people with a disadvantage or disability.
Although Josh has been awarded the bursary to go towards his campaign at the UK National GP14 Championship in Cornwall this year he is also heavily involved in promoting the GP class in the area as Newtownards Fleet Captain. The Ballyhalbert youth helps extensively with training at NSC and with maintaining the Club's GP14 boats which assist newcomers to the sport to get an opportunity to sail without the expense of buying a boat.
