OnBoard partners with Officine Panerai to launch new Challenger Trophy

OnBoard RYA, May 2017 © Emily Whiting

The Royal Yachting Association, through its OnBoard programme, and high-end luxury sport watchmaker Officine Panerai, are proud to launch the Panerai Challenger Trophy, a new initiative that aims to recognise an outstanding individual who has embraced the power of sailing or windsurfing to achieve an inspiring personal triumph that inspires us all.

The RYA's OnBoard programme gives anyone aged 8-18 the chance to learn to sail or windsurf by providing low cost sessions and is designed to promote equal access to sailing for young people from all social and economic backgrounds, whilst encouraging their character development.

The 3-year initiative led by Officine Panerai will see 3 winners and up to 12 finalists from OnBoard sailing clubs through the UK receiving grants totalling £120,000 in order to pursue their passion and continue with their sailing development, as well as funding the clubs that have supported them through their journey to buy sailing equipment. Participating clubs can nominate sailors who have overcome physical, economic or social challenges to achieve a significant milestone within sailing or windsurfing. OnBoard recognised character traits including creativity, teamwork, communication, determination, independence and confidence will be determinant to choose a winner.

The winning sailor will be announced during the Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes in July and presented with the Panerai Challenger Trophy. The piece, commissioned by Panerai, is inspired by the engineering excellence of the great classic boat designers.

Alistair Dickson, RYA Director of Sport Development, said: "We're delighted to launch the Panerai Challenger Trophy. Like us, Officine Panerai is passionate about encouraging equal access within the sport for all. We believe this Trophy will open the doors for more people to be active or be introduced to the sport. We look forward to receiving the first applications."

Jean-Marc Pontroué, Officine Panerai's CEO, is equally positive: "We are thrilled to partner with OnBoard in this great initiative, which will support more people discover the beauty and power of the sea. Panerai is a nautical brand at heart and we are passionate about sharing our values and the RYA's with the applicants. The annual sponsorship of the PCYC reminds us of the empowering force of sailing to inspire and bring joy to all. We are confident that the Panerai Challenger Trophy will help us achieve this for years to come."

For more information about how to get involved in sailing visit rya.org.uk/go/onboard