This award is for an individual or a group who has made a difference to make paddlesport more accessible to all, increasing opportunities for under-represented groups to participate.

Sarah Thomson of Och Aye Canoe is nominated for her determined efforts to make paddlesport more accessible by removing physical, psychological, social, and financial barriers, notably through bespoke experiences for groups like Help for Heroes and for mentoring female paddlers.

Jos Wallace is nominated for her innovative, non-profit work with Central Scotland Adventures, where she commits seven days a week to providing accessible paddlesports to neurodiverse and disabled communities and has created a sustainable model for unpaid carers to access free activities.

Forth Canoe Club, specifically their Women's Polo team, is nominated as an exceptionally welcoming and inclusive club which has significantly increased women's participation in the sport, as evidenced by the team winning the Scottish Championships and establishing a club environment and participation with an equal mix of men and women across several teams, ranging in age, ability and nationality.



Finalists and winners will be celebrated on Friday 30 January - tickets are now available to join us for the Recognition Awards celebration for £10/£30.