CA honours outstanding volunteer contributions at Flag Officers’ Lunch and Challenge Awards

The Cruising Association’s annual Flag Officers’ Lunch and presentation of Challenge Awards took place held at CA House, London, on 17 January 2026.

Held each year, the event celebrates the voluntary commitment, expertise and dedication of the CA’s many volunteers. A highlight of the occasion is the presentation of the CA’ prestigious Challenge Awards, recognising individuals whose contributions have made a significant and lasting difference to the CA and its members.

CA Patron Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, who attended as guest of honour at the event, presented the awards, commenting, "There are so many inspiring examples of volunteering within the CA, and it is a pleasure to share this occasion with you. Your contributions help guide the Association and ensure it continues to thrive for future generations of cruisers."

President Robin Baron paid tribute to the vital role played by volunteers, saying, "It is with great pride that we recognise the outstanding contributions and achievements within our cruising community this year. Each award tells a story of dedication, knowledge, and passion for cruising, and reflects the strength of the Cruising Association’s volunteer spirit. I am exceptionally proud of the collaborations we achieve and the culture of volunteering which has been the backbone of the CA since its formation in 1908."

Sandy Duker being presented with the President's Plate

Fiona Slay collecting the Duchess of Kent Trophy on behalf of Jazz Turner

James Parnell receives the Desmond Scott Memorial Cup on behalf of Ian Wilson

Camilla Herrmann receives the Fid on behalf of Stephanie Jones

Catriona Essenhigh receives the Laver Sextant on behalf of Simon and Georgette Harrison

Judith Grimwade receiving the Bradley Cup on behalf of John Calver

Jules Dussek receives the Brittain Cup on behalf of Machiel Lambooij

Jane Murphy receiving the Michael Manton Commemorative Plate

The 2025 Challenge Award recipients

The President’s Plate
Awarded for: outstanding service to the CA
Presented to: Sandy Duker, in recognition of her long and dedicated service as Secretary of the Blue Water Section and her invaluable contributions to the Library and Information Centre

The Duchess of Kent Trophy
Awarded for: an exceptional achievement in or around small boats by any sailor, not necessarily a member
Presented to: Jazz Turner, who made history by becoming the first disabled person to complete a solo, non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation of the UK and Ireland. Aged 26, Jazz covered 2,070 miles in just four weeks. Undertaken following a terminal diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, her voyage stands as a remarkable achievement and an inspiration to the sailing community.

The Desmond Scott Memorial Cup
Awarded for: the most outstanding contribution by a member to the work of the CA
Presented to: Ian Wilson, in recognition of his leadership of the Cruising Information Development Group (CIDG)over many years (2017-2025) and pivotal role in the development of CAptain’s Mate.

The Fid
Awarded for: the best article on cruising matters to be published in Cruising.
Presented to: Stephanie Jones, whose evocative and informative articles have taken readers across the Pacific and explored the practical realities of specialist diets at sea. Her writing continues to inform, inspire and enrich the pages of Cruising.

The Laver Sextant
Awarded for: services to the Sections
Presented to: Georgette and Simon Harrison, longstanding members who stepped forward in 2020 to serve as Suffolk Section Secretaries, providing continuity, energy, and leadership until their retirement in spring 2025.

The Bradley Cup
Awarded: on the recommendation of the current and past Presidents.
Presented to: John Calver, in recognition of his many years of service as Honorary Editor (2006- 2025) of the Cruising Almanac, the CA’s most respected and enduring publication.

The Brittain Cup
Awarded for: most valuable contribution to knowledge of a cruising area
Presented to: Machiel Lambooij, whose extensive contributions have significantly enhanced the CA’s knowledge of the inland waterways of the Netherlands.

The Michael Manton Commemorative Plate
Awarded for: innovative work to build the CA’s cruising community in the Mediterranean
Presented to: Jane Murphy, in recognition of more than four decades of exceptional service. A CA member for 44 years, Jane has served on Council, chaired Council, supported the Finance Committee, hosted Med Section events, contributed to seminars, prepared updates for the Imray Adriatic Pilot, shared advice on MedNet, and been Adriatic editor for 20 years. This award recognises a lifetime of commitment to the Mediterranean cruising community

The Dussek Plate
Awarded for: the most valuable collection of forum posts
Presented to: Frank Singleton, whose insightful and authoritative contributions on meteorology over many years have provided invaluable guidance to members.

The Polaris Award
Awarded for: exceptional contribution to location information for the CA’s renowned Cruising Almanac, CAptain’s Mate and range of Cruising Guides.
Presented to: Editors of CAptain’s Mate: Nigel Cuthbert and Nick Chapman
Editor of the Cruising Almanac: John Tait

Honorary Membership
Honorary Membership has been awarded to Ivan Andrews in recognition of his extensive work on the CA’s IT projects over many years, most recently his significant contribution to the relaunch of the CA website. Ivan joins a distinguished group of members whose exceptional service has been recognised with Honorary Membership.

James Parnell receives the Dussek Plate on behalf of Frank Singleton

Nick Chapman & Nigel Cuthbert receiving the Polaris Awards

John Tait receiving the Polaris Award

CA 2026 Flag Officers' Lunch and presentation of the Challenge Awards

Join the CA Volunteer Team

Whether you can spare hours or days, your skills and passion will have an impact. If you are interested in volunteering or finding out about opportunities, please contact the CA Volunteering Champion, Bob Slay.