The charity has reached the final four for the 2026 World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Impact Award and is asking South Africans to vote before the deadline on 2 November.
Cape Town, South Africa (30 October 2026) – A South African organisation that uses sailing to create opportunities for young people has been named one of four finalists for an international award.
The Little Optimist Trust and Sailing Academy is in the running for the 2026 World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Impact Award, which recognises organisations using sailing to make a positive difference.
The Trust is representing South Africa alongside finalists from the United States, Germany and India. Public voting closes at 14:00 South African time on Monday, 2 November 2026, and the organisation is encouraging people across the country to support its campaign.
Founded on the belief that sailing can help young people develop confidence and discover new opportunities, the Trust works to make the sport more accessible to children who may not otherwise have the chance to take part.
Founder Greg Bertish said the recognition was significant for both the organisation and South Africa.
“This is an enormous honour, not just for The Little Optimist Trust, but for South Africa. We have an opportunity to put our country on the map and show the world how sailing can change lives. More importantly, we want to help change the face of sailing worldwide, making it a sport that welcomes, inspires and empowers young people from every background.”
Its nomination also brings attention to the barriers that can surround sailing, a sport often associated with privilege. The organisation hopes its work will help broaden participation and show how the sport can reach young people from different backgrounds.
Founder Greg Bertish said the recognition was significant for both the organisation and South Africa.
“To be recognised alongside such incredible international organisations is already a huge achievement. But to win would send an even more powerful message: that a small South African organisation with a big dream can make a real difference on the world stage.
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The winner will be announced at the World Sailing Awards ceremony in Qingdao, China, on Wednesday, 18 November 2026.
“We’re asking every South African to get behind us. You don’t have to know anything about sailing to make a difference. All you need to do is cast your vote and help us bring this award home.”
How to Vote
South Africans can support The Little Optimist Trust by visiting the official World Sailing Awards 2026 page, following the voting link and selecting The Little Optimist Trust (RSA).
Votes must be submitted before 14:00 (SAST) on Monday, 2 November.
For the Trust, the nomination is already an opportunity to showcase South African work internationally.
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