Gene Hinkel awarded US Sailing’s President’s Award at 2024 Sonar Worlds
by International Sonar Class Association 18 Sep 06:19 PDT
September 12-15, 2024
Betsey Alison and Gene Henke – US Sailing’s President’s Award © David Trost
US Sailing’s Adult Director Betsy Alison was present for Saturday’s dinner during the 2024 Sonar World Championship held at Noroton Yacht Club in Darien, CT.
Following dinner, Betsy made a special presentation:
I am here tonight to not only celebrate the remarkable sailing exhibited at this Sonar World Championship but also to pay tribute to a dedicated member of the class who has supported sailors and teams throughout the years. I am representing the President of US Sailing, Rich Jepsen, for a special presentation.
The President’s Award is a distinguished honor. It is awarded by the Board President to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the sailing community and to US Sailing. The Board President has the authority to select the award recipients. Among you is someone who has devoted countless hours to making sure that every sailor can get on the water and compete at a high level. In the early days of Paralympic Sailing, he began creating adaptations that allowed sailors to maximize their potential, enabling them to compete on equal terms with able-bodied counterparts.
Affectionately known as the “Grandfather of Disabled Sailing,” he has dedicated over 30 years to refining equipment, transporting boats and gear across the country and the globe, and serving as a teammate for sailors in need, doing whatever it takes to support participants at events domestically and internationally. As a class measurer, he has worked diligently to ensure that the rules are upheld for fair competition and collaborated with the Sonar class to develop Appendix B in the Sonar class rules to accommodate equipment requirements for sailors with disabilities, allowing their ongoing participation in open Sonar class events. You might find Gene trailering boats along the coast, flying to Ireland for Cork Week, or serving as bosun at an adaptive regatta across the nation.
In the words of US Sailing President Rich Jepsen: “Gene Hinkel has led a life dedicated to the sport we cherish. His legendary career, both professional and volunteer, has garnered him universal admiration and respect for his selfless commitment to empowering all sailors, regardless of physical ability, to compete. He stands as an exemplary role model for service-oriented sailors. Even at 80 years old, Gene continues to thrive.”
On behalf of US Sailing and sailors of all abilities across the United States, I am proud to present Gene Hinkel with the President’s Award for his long-standing and distinguished service to Para sailing.”
Gene, please join us to accept this award and be honored by your fellow sailors!
