The Sunday Times Sportswomen of the year awards 2024
Published 10:45 on 30 Jan 2025
"I felt totally honoured to be part of the event last week, flying the flag for Sailing, SYC, Ladies that Launch and our various Youth Sailing Groups. Thank you to everyone who nominated and voted for me and to everyone who helps sports at a grassroots level to grow. Thank you to Suzy Andrews who read the Times one morning last Autumn and with very little time decided to instigate some nominations. I had no idea and was completely shocked to be included.
At the Awards each speech was moving, every story inspiring, and the encouraging presentations left me in awe about how far womens sport has come over the last 37 years of the awards. It was a very emotional evening. Women are achieving today in sport, and moving towards parity, because of inspirational role models, such as those whom SWOTY has been able to shine a spotlight on for many years. It was truly humbling to be involved.
It was such a privilege to be at BAFTA and great having the opportunity to meet and talk with fellow Nominees, Judges and Sponsors. The evening went in flash! It was very clear that, whatever the sport, it needs individuals who encourage people to believe that they themselves can achieve. Enjoyment and Community and many medals are certainly celebrated in the SWOTY awards! As Jasmine Paris who was the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons said
It doesnt have to be the Barkley any challenge. If you dream about something or think you are not good enough the only way to know is to get out and try!
It is exciting that we are getting ready to launch for another season at SYC and we can be ready to encourage even more people on their sailing journeys and to experience the joy. From being part of the Club and all the activities ashore, simply learning to catch the wind, to participating in Club Sailing regularly, racing in Regattas and to increasing performance skills and so on…"
Photos include Jayne with Grassroots winner Val French. Val has led over a thousand cycling rides under the British Cycling Breeze initiative and is an amazing ambassador for sport.