David Crees Receives RYA Lifetime Commitment Award

Published 11:15 on 14 Dec 2022

David Crees has served in many roles at Axe Yacht Club (AYC) since joining in the 1970s, including Commodore and Principal, and he has been President since 2015. He has always had a keen interest in training having taught at All Hallows school for many years. He first started sailing at the Axe in the early 1970s with the school boats. From this, an interest grew in the evolving RYA training scheme, and he was instrumental in the club becoming an RYA Recognised Training Centre in 1974.

Recognising some years ago that the club had an ageing demographic, he helped establish the club's development plan and secured grants to fund a new training fleet. This encouraged many youngsters onto the water and the club now has a highly successful cadet and family sailing section. A qualified Yachtmaster Instructor, he continues to instruct a wide range of courses and has led VHF/SRC courses both at AYC and many other local venues, helping other clubs.

David has a coaching style that is both engaging and motivating. He has contributed hugely to the running of the club, always keen to encourage member participation and setting up processes to help members get involved at all levels. Passionate about all forms of boating, he encourages others to reach their goals and is thoroughly kind, generous and good-humoured.

Deservedly, David has been recognised for his achievements, recently receiving his RYA Lifetime Commitment Award from HRH Princess Anne.

https://www.rya.org.uk/news/hrh-the-princess-royal-recognises-outstanding-sw-boating-volunteers