Blackwater Sailing Club welcomes new Commodore
by Gay Ayton 11 Dec 2024 13:49 GMT
Blackwater Sailing Club's new Commodore Sheena Berney © Gay Ayton
The Blackwater Sailing Club is proud to announce the appointment of Sheena Berney as the new Commodore, making her only the third woman to hold this prestigious position in the Club's 125-year history.
Sheena has been an active member of the Club for over 40 years demonstrating exceptional leadership and a passion for sailing. She has served in a number of roles and on multiple committees including Membership Secretary welcoming over 100 new members each year as well as organising the Club's annual Open Day. As a Flag Officer on a six-year pathway, firstly as Rear, then Vice and now Commodore, she is not only well qualified in all the many aspects of running this Club of over 1,000 members, including design and organisation of the significant rebuild but also shows immense dedication, time and energy.
Sheena has extensive experience on the water too; as an enthusiastic fleet captain of the Sprite dinghy class she was instrumental in keeping this historic class active. For the National 18 class she helped run their national championships and as an experienced Race Officer runs club racing and open meetings. Sheena is also an experienced big boat sailor competing in offshore racing as well as cruising and a trans-Atlantic crossing.
Sheena is a recipient of one of the Royal Yachting Association's (RYA) most prestigious volunteer awards The Outstanding Contribution Award in recognition of her commitment to sailing at The Blackwater Sailing Club.
In her new role, Sheena aims to promote accessibility in sailing, further encourage a thriving cadet section and nurture the welcoming environment for all members. "I am honoured to take on this role", said Sheena "which I'm so pleased to say is still largely run by wonderful volunteers. Celebrating our 125th anniversary has been a profound time to reflect on our rich history and I'm looking forward to working with the members and embracing new opportunities as we continue to showcase this special family friendly Club for our future sailors."
For further information about visiting and joining the Club, contact membership secretary or visit www.blackwatersailingclub.org.uk
Blackwater Sailing Club, Heybridge Basin, Maldon, Essex CM9 4SD