Kai Marks-Dasent, 14, of the Vincy Sailing Club is the Sylvester Ambrose Simmons Memorial Foundation’s youth sailor of the year 2024.
Marks-Dasent, a student at St Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua, exemplifies dedication both on and off the water, a press release said.
“Beyond excelling in competition, he actively gives back to the sport, assisting at his club and mentoring new sailors.”
Marks-Dasent’s achievements include securing 3rd place at the North American O’pen Skiff Championships and raising funds for his team’s participation by completing a daring sail from St. Vincent to Bequia.
His ambitions include competing at the Youth World Sailing Championships next year and representing his country at the Junior Olympics in 2026.
The announcement of the Youth Sailor of the Year Award was the highlight at the foundation’s first annual members’ dinner on Dec. 14 in Bequia.
The Youth Sailor of the Year Award was presented by Sylvester Simmons’ widow, Joan Simmons.
This event celebrated the foundation’s continued commitment to youth sailing and community development in honour of the late Sylvester Ambrose Simmons, a passionate advocate for youth sailing and community engagement in Bequia.
The foundation, which was launched in 2023, has dedicated its efforts to promoting youth sailing and fostering opportunities for young sailors across the Grenadines.
A key highlight of the foundation’s activities was the Youth Regatta in March, which brought together young sailors from Bequia, Canouan, Mayreau, and St. Vincent.
Plans are already underway for the 2025 regatta, scheduled for March 15 and 16.
The award celebrates exceptional talent, dedication, and contribution to the sport of sailing. Sailors from Bequia, Canouan, and St. Vincent were nominated by their clubs, with the winner selected by an independent panel.
“The Sylvester Ambrose Simmons Memorial Foundation continues to uphold the legacy of its namesake, inspiring and empowering young sailors in the region while fostering community development through meaningful initiatives,” the press release said.