US Sailing and Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky recently announced its top six finalists for the Old Pulteney Maritime Heroes Award. The award sought out unsung heroes in sailing communities across the country making a significant contribution to the sport.
Each finalist was nominated by another member of their sailing community based on their charitable and selfless efforts. The top nominees were then carefully selected by Old Pulteney and US Sailing representatives. The finalists draw from different backgrounds as well as experiences and are as follows:
- Bruce Bertucci – Perth Amboy, NJ -- Bruce created the Perth Amboy High School Sailing Team and implemented the summer program which is open to all aspiring sailors regardless of their ability to pay.
- Chris German – Ashford, CT -- Chris founded Connecticut Community Boating in 2007 which gives inner-city and underprivileged children a chance to experience the sea
- Donald Backe – Annapolis, MD -- Donald created the o, Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating organization and inspires the disabled to sail
- Marcus Asante – Baltimore, MD--Marcus brings the sport of sailing to the African American community and founded the Universal Sailing Club, bringing history and sailing education to African Americans
- John O’Flaherty – Portsmouth, RI--John brings the sport of sailing to children of all socio-economic backgrounds who would otherwise not have an opportunity to experience the sport.
- Rachael Miller – Granville, VT--Rachael connects and educates people of all ages on the importance of locating and removing marine debris in order to maintain a clean, safe sailing environment.
There are only a few days left to vote for the finalists! The voting period ends on Sunday, December 16th at 12:00 AM EST. The 2012 Maritime Hero will be recognized for their humanitarian efforts at an award ceremony in January during US Sailing’s 2013 National Sailing Programs Symposium in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Visit www.maritimeheroes.com today to vote for your favorite sailor!
Where have you gone Joe DiMaggio?
Posted by: Tillerman | March 15, 2013 at 11:39 AM