As the Formula Foil World Championships came to an end it was a moment to remember the one individual who played a pivotal role in shaping the windsurfing community: our legendary General Secretary, Ceri Williams.
It was with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Ceri in 2020, a true windsurfing pioneer who dedicated his life to advancing the sport he loved dearly. Throughout his tenure as General Secretary of the International Windsurfing Association, Ceri’s unwavering passion and boundless enthusiasm propelled windsurfing to new heights. He tirelessly championed inclusivity and accessibility, making it possible for windsurfing to touch the lives of people from all walks of life.
Ceri was not just a leader; he was a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration to many of us – for all who had the privilege of knowing him. His vision was to see windsurfing flourish as a sport that brings people together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.
Ceri Williams, the first IWA General Secretary, is remembered for his great friendships, his unfailing work ethic, his generous smile, and his willingness to always go beyond the call of duty. He will forever be in our hearts.
The Ceri Williams award in recognition of those who, like Ceri Williams, demonstrate that they are seeking excellence and stand at the service of the sport of windsurfing and those who love it. It is awarded to those, who represent all the values of excellence pursued by IWA in its institutional activity, guaranteeing a high level of sporting, educational and didactic activity, growing the sport of windsurfing worldwide.
This year the Ceri Williams award is presented to Francesco Zarbo.
Francesco has dedicated over 20 years to growing the Formula Windsurfing Class, being a member and chairman of the Executive Committee of the class for two decades. He has been part of some of the largest windsurfing events we have seen and was instrumental for the transition of Olympic Windsurfing to foiling. Francesco helped Ceri drive the Formula Class forward and is still doing so today. Francesco was Ceri’s cherished friend, worthy of the award.
