The Trophy is awarded annually for outstanding contribution to the sport of sailing in memory of Beppe Croce, President of the IYRU from 1969-1986. Previous winners include HM King Olav V of Norway, Paul Elvstrom, HM King Juan Carlos of Spain and Olin Stephens.

Paul J Phelan is a very deserving candidate for the Beppe Croce Trophy, his contribution to sailing at all levels exemplifies an individual who has made a voluntary outstanding contribution to the sport of yachting.

Paul has been serving the sport at the international level for more than 33 years and his only reward has been the enjoyment received.

He has been one of the greatest promoters of youth sailing from his earlier years with the IYRU as the first Chairman of the Youth Committee, to his encouragement of disadvantaged Canadian youth, to his support of the World Youth Sailing Trust.

He has been an active competitor at all levels of racing from International 14 Foot Dinghies to the America’s Cup and is currently campaigning his George Cuthbertson designed ‘Red Jacket’ which has had very successful 1991 and 1992 seasons. The presentation will take place at the Canadian Yachting Association Gala Dinner on Wednesday 3rd November at the Royal Canadian Yacht club, Toronto and will be made by Peter Tallberg, President of the IYRU.