John Bertrand is Victoria's Sailor of the Year

by Mike Sabey on 25 Jun 2011 Victorian Yachting Awards 2011 winners were announced on Friday 24th June.

Three decades on, Australia’s revered Americas Cup skipper John Bertrand is once again back on top winning Yachting Victoria’s Sailor of the Year Award after taking out the World and Australian Etchells titles.

Now in his sixties, Mr Bertrand from the Royal Brighton Yacht Club has made a successful return to elite sailing to take on and beat the absolute world’s best in Etchells 22 keelboats, which is regarded as one of the most competitive classes.

Chairman of Yachting Victoria’s Awards Committee Alistair Murray said, 'Mr Bertrand’s award also recognises the huge amounts he puts back into our sport as an Olympic selector and a proactive ambassador for major events including Geelong Week and Sail Melbourne.'

The year’s winners of the 20th Victorian Yachting Awards that included junior, youth and disability sailors were announced at a champions night held at The Point – Albert Park attended by almost 200 people. A full list of winners can be viewed here.

Yachting Victoria’s sponsors include Helly Hensen, Club Marine, Vic Health, OAMPS, Ronstan and the Victorian Yachting Victoria website