Meet the parents creating some serious Scottish Feva fever

Sarah and Jon Ewer © RYA Scotland

Two dedicated parents have been awarded with an RYA Scotland Impact Award, recognising their contribution to the RS Feva Dinghy Sailing Class here in Scotland.

Jon and Sarah Ewer are credited with growing numbers, training opportunities, and cultivating a sense of community amongst the young sailors within the Feva Class.

Designed to recognise those who truly make a difference within the Scottish boating landscape, our RYA Scotland Impact Awards allow us to celebrate the time, commitment, and dedication displayed by so many within the community.

With Jon and Sarah's Impact clear to see, the pair have been described as 'invaluable' by RYA Scotland Feva Coach April Whiteley:

"They're just incredible! Always messaging, organising, sorting out Class Association boats.. sorting out their own kids!

"And doing work with the Feva Class Association as well, to try and arrange additional training outside of academies. As a coach, all I can really say is that Jon and Sarah are invaluable."

Despite coming from a non-sailing background, Jon was quick to step into the sport a number of years ago to support his daughter's growing passion for being afloat.

Jon later took on the role of RS Feva Class Representative for Scotland, with him and Sarah quickly immersing themselves in the sailing landscape.

With the Ewer's also actively involved at Prestwick Sailing Club, a growing buzz around the Feva Class is tangible wherever they go.

Now having rallied even more parents to get involved with boat towing and event support, a noticeable upward trend is visible within the Class.

Jon and Sarah were presented with their award during a training weekend at Helensburgh Sailing Club earlier this season. Jon said:

"I am honoured and all I can say is thank you very much.

"It's just lovely to see everyone having fun when we do the socials and having a great time out on the water. I'm honoured."

In addition to a hands-on practical presence at events and training days, Jon is also dedicated to capturing all that goes on within the Feva Class, and getting word out about the different opportunities on offer.

And, it seems some of the hard work and dedication is already paying off, with Scottish RS Feva Sailors Emilia Ewer and Lily Hopkins finishing 3rd out of all junior boats (aged 13 and under) at the RS Feva National Championships in Weymouth earlier this week (25th-28th May).

The major four day event saw five Scottish boats travelling south. Entrants gained some valuable experience amongst a bigger fleet - along with some strong winds.

Emilia said: "Lily and I were delighted to come away with a prize and medal as 3rd Juniors at RS Feva UK National Championships.

"I enjoyed everything that happened, even the few capsizes... because I learned something new every time that we made a mistake.

"My main takeaway would have to be the confidence that I have gained over the 4 days. I have gained so much confidence to sail in those sorts of conditions."

Discussing how the Scottish Feva class has come on as a result of her parent's input, older sister Jess said:

"We now have a fleet, which is amazing.

"It's a lot better, because it means that we can improve as sailors altogether.

"What we've found since we've started is that you build up a great community of people that you share interests with.

"And now that we have a class altogether, it means that we can all be competitive against each other but also off the water we can be great friends, which is really, really cool."

With the future looking strong for the Scottish Feva cohort, many are already looking to next year's National Championships which will take place at Dalgety Bay Sailing Club in Fife, so make sure you keep up with RYA Scotland, and Scottish RS Fevas on social media for all the latest.

Having been integral to getting the Class to where it is now, Jon and Sarah are excited to see all that is still to come.

Inspired? Why not nominate someone you know for an RYA Scotland Impact Award?

Fancy getting afloat yourself? Use the RYA Activity Finder to locate a course, club, or centre near you.