Marvin McDill Memorial Award - Mariah Millen

Marvin McDill Memorial Award winner Mariah Millen © Sail Canada

This year's recipient of the Marvin McDill Memorial Award, also known as the Rookie of the Year Award, is Mariah Millen.

Mariah and her skipper, Ali Ten Hove first got together in the 49erFX in the summer of 2016. Mariah was transitioning out of a series of successful summers sailing in the 29er, and Ali from a 470 Olympic campaign. After a successful 2017 season including winning the Canadian Championships, Oakcliff Triple Crown Series, finishing 4th at the North American Championships, and 5th at Junior World's, they made it on the Canadian Sailing Development Squad. This past year they continued to make Canada proud by leading the 49erFX fleet at local events and took their success abroad, managing to finish in the top half at their first World Championships this past fall.

Ontario Sailing coach, Chris Cowan points out that she is constantly pushing her personal limits being the only athlete he has ever seen faint during a 2k row test, regain her composure, and ask to do the test again. Mariah continues to impress those around her with her hard work, determination, and infectious positivity.

1. How does it feel to be the recipient of the Marvin McDill Award (also known as Rookie of the Year)?

I am incredibly honoured to be the recipient of the Marvin McDill Memorial Award. My sailing partner Ali Ten Hove and I have worked very hard this year on our progression as a team, and we are trying to improve ourselves in all aspects of our sport. Receiving this award makes me want to push even harder to become my best self and become a better athlete.

2. What would you say has been the largest contributing factor to your level of success?

The Largest contributing factor to my current success is my sailing partner Ali. There is no one I would rather be on this journey with and I can attest my current success to her being with me every step of the way. I am also very thankful for the support I receive from Sail Canada, our Coach Krzysztof Kierkowski and the rest of my support team who all push me to be my best self.

3. Although you dedicate most of your time to sailing, what is the main thing you like to do outside of training and racing at events?

Outside of sailing, I find it hard to stay away from the water- as it's one of my favourite places to be! I love surfing, diving and marine life. I am super passionate about marine and wildlife conservation, and I constantly try to do my part to waste less and keep our oceans clean

4. If you could give one tip to double handed sailors what would it be?

My advice to aspiring High Performance sailors is to enjoy the process. Every journey has its ups and downs which ultimately help you grow as a person and a sailor. Work hard to make small improvements every day, and always respect your teammates work and decisions as your success directly correlate with theirs.

Join us in celebrating this award on Friday, March 1st, 2019 at 6.30pm at The Carlu in Toronto, ON. Tickets are available store.sailing.ca