The Ocean Cruising Club has announced the winner of The Endurance Award, a new worldwide award for 2014.

The new accolade marks an extension of a regional trophy that was previously only awarded to a US group of OCC members.

The regional group approached the committee several years ago about opening the award to all members of OCC.

Now the new worldwide award is in place and the first winner under the new rules is Colin Jarman of the 20ft cruiser May Morning.

The Endurance Award is linked to the achievements of Sir Ernest Shackelton who, despite incredible challenges, never gave up on Antarctic exploration or on his crew.

It is awarded ‘To a member who demonstrates indomitable spirit and perseverance in the face of adversity.’

The first regional award recipient was Jocelyn Hellstrom, who inspired the accolade. She and Erik brought Havsvind to the Chesapeake. Anne Hallett first suggested that the OCC try to recognize her incredible story – a circumnavigator with her first husband, she was struck with lung cancer, had a lung removed, recovered and resumed offshore sailing with Erik, her second husband.

The second regional awardee was Rebecca Shaw, an experienced offshore sailor who nearly died in an auto accident in Greece during a Mediterranean cruise, and recovered to resume sailing despite her injuries.

This year’s winner

Colin Jarman has been named inaugural winner of worldwide Endurance Award for being ‘an inspiration’ to OCC members.

While battling cancer and enduring multiple surgeries and chemotherapy, Colin bent publication deadlines to get the OCC Newsletter out without fail.

Having just purchased 20ft fixer-upper May Morning, he also battled the frustration of being unable to start the work on her she so badly needed.

However, determined not to let things get the better of him, in the words of his nominator ‘it’s Colin’s love of being out sailing and the support of his wife Mary that has kept him going steadfastly forward.’

Dedication and determination have been instrumental both in his recovery and in his restoration project.

Pictures: Colin Jarman and his yacht May Morning