Moon nominated for award

(CNS): Jane Moon fromthe Cayman Islands Sailing Authority has been nominated by the Cayman Islands Olympic Committee (CIOC) as a candidate for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) “Women and Sport” Award – 2009, which is given to an individual or to an institution in recognition of their outstanding contribution to Women and Sport.. the local Olympic committee says Moon has always encouraged female participation in all aspects of sailing from competition to officiating, to administration and to management of the sport. (Left: Moon receives her diploma from Pres. Donald McLean and VP Lori Powell)

The IOC Women and Sport Awards are awarded annually to promote the advancement of women in sport, a release from CIOC explains. They recognize outstanding achievement and contributions made to develop encourage and strengthen the participation of women and girls at all levels in the sports world. One trophy each is awarded to the National Olympic Committee (NOC) continents of Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania; as well as a trophy at the world level.

Jane  As a competitor Jane has encouraged women into the sport both as crew members and helmspersons, which has been successful both nationally and internationally. As a result there have been many more female sailing competitors in the sport of sailing in the Cayman Islands ranging from the very young to the more mature woman; and on various classes of sail boats.

Jane has organized various seminars and clinics specifically for female sailors at all levels. Many women have taken advantage of this and improved their skills tremendously. Through her role on the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) womens sailing committee she has contributed to the increased participation of women in sailing, in the Olympic Regatta. This includes pushing for the 11th medal which ultimately meant womens fleet racing was included. Jane encouraged more women into the administration of the sport by initiating the womens seat on the ISAF council. She was the first woman appointed as the womens representative on the ISAF council.

Nationally Jane has encouraged more women to join the Executive Committee of the Cayman Islands Sailing club, as well as numerous sub-committees. This has not only resulted in more women being involved in the races, and many all female crews for boats; but also the organization of many more social activities at the club inclusive of members, family and friends. This ultimately results in more promotion and support for the sport and the club in the community.

As a board member of the Cayman Islands Sailing Club in many roles over the years, Jane has been responsible for the press releases to the media for club activities. As many sailing competitions are sponsored by community groups and local companies she always ensured that the local community was aware of club activities and their sponsors with supporting photographs from her collection.

CIOC is proud to have had Jane recognized by the IOC for her accomplishments in Cayman, and CIOC pledges to continue to support Women and Sport in the Cayman Islands through any possible initiative.