WPNSA Chairman Edward Leask awarded OBE and RYA Volunteer Award

by Cailah Leask on 28 Nov 2014 Former Chairman of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA), Edward Leask, has been awarded both an OBE and a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Community Award for Outstanding Contribution.

Director of the WPNSA, Sir Ben Ainslie commented on the double award, 'Edward Leask has made a real impact on the sailing scene, an Olympic sailor himself he had the foresight to help initiate the development of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. He is a key player in ensuring the sports venue has a successful and sustained legacy following 2012. His title is well deserved; Edward has earned this through a lifelong commitment to bettering the sport of sailing in the UK'.

Announced in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, Edward received his OBE for Sailing, Young People and Philanthropy. Edward attended his investiture at Windsor Castle with a presentation by the Duke of Cambridge. The following month Edward was also recognised by the Royal Yachting Association for his exceptional voluntary contribution to the sport of sailing with a presentation by HRH Princess Anne last week at Westminster. Sarah Treseder Chief Executive of the Royal Yachting Association said, 'Edward unreservedly gave his time, money, energy and expertise to develop WPNSA into a world class venue that maximises the legacy of 2012 for both the local and wider sailing communities. I’m delighted that he has accepted an RYA Outstanding Contribution Award in recognition of his contribution and lasting achievement'.

A twice Olympian himself, Edward has offered his services to the Academy ever since its inception during 2000, 'I am truly honoured to be named for such prestigious awards, my work alongside the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has been exceptionally rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to encourage the sport and legacy agenda for young people in years to come'.

Both awards mark Edward’s involvement with the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy where he was Chairman from 2007 through to 2013. This time frame included the development of the Academy into the sailing competition venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Games as well as delivering a strong legacy agenda.

Peter Allam, Chief Executive at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy is pleased that a key player in the Academy’s success has been recognised at a top level, 'the titles Edward has received have been rewarding for the whole of the WPNSA team. It is extremely positive that our former Chairman has been publicly appreciated for his commitment to the Academy over the years'.