Jon Holt shortlisted for YJA MS Amlin International Sailor of the Decade

When I first heard that Jon Holt had made the shortlist in the YJA MS Amlin International Sailor of the Decade, I admit I was slightly taken aback.

Jon Holt has many sailing miles under his lifejacket, including numerous channel crossings, countless laps around the Isle of Wight and the marks around the Solent plus two laps of the Rolex Fastnet Race course. But what of the other nominees?

Dee Caffari, the first person to circumnavigate the globe in each direction (with the prevailing winds and against them). Sir Ben Ainslie, the world’s most successful sailor in Olympic History. Sir Robin Knox-Johnston the first person to sail single handed non-stop around the world. The late Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson Olympic Gold medallist in 2008 and Silver medallist in 2012. I might suggest that Jon’s sailing CV does not quite line up against these, many of whom are household names to those who sail?

Then you go on to read what the award is all about. It aims to recognise the achievements of those who have had the greatest impact on our sport and pastime. WELL, now things become clear.

Jon is a teacher at Greig City Academy, Haringey and started their school sailing programme in 2014. Something that has now evolved into the Scaramouche Sailing Trust. Over Six years and two Fastnet campaigns, he has managed to get hundreds (if not thousands) of school children sailing. This hasn’t just been ‘bums in boats’, with participants achieving Atlantic crossings, top level Etchells sailing, Dragon sailing, dinghy sailing and one participant even being awarded the YJA Young Sailor of the Year Award 2017.

Jon’s total dedication over the last six years has successfully brought sailing to an inner-city school. His direct efforts have enabled children from significantly disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to, not just ‘try’ but really participate, in the sport of sailing and all it brings. Jon has used sailing to build confident, resilience, independence and teamwork. He has helped establish a lifelong interest in the sport of sailing for many.

I think it’s fair to say, Jon’s life is his family, Greig City Academy Students and the Scaramouche Sailing Trust. You can choose the order.

Please don’t misunderstand me, all the other nominees are amazing people, they have achieved some incredible feats and they are very inspirational sailors that Jon and the students (plus me!) look up to. In my eyes though, for Jon Holt to even have been nominated makes him a winner and for that he will be getting a new mug for the staff room!