Matt Coughlin earns 2009 C.J. Buckley Courageous Spirit of Sailing Award

C.J. Buckley Courageous Spirit of Sailing Award is presented each year to the GBSA sailor who best exemplifies the vibrant spirit of C.J. Buckley, an enthusiastic, dedicated sailor whose love of sailing and positive attitude inspired everyone around him. C.J. passed away in 2002 at 17 after battling brain cancer for more than a year. His memory lives on as his courage and determination continue to inspire those who knew him and everyone who learns about his amazing life.

This year’s winner Matt Coughlin is pictured with his parents, Kevin and Beth (left), and CJ’s parents Carter and Lucy Buckley. Past winners are: Josh Blasbalg (2004), Tricia Sellon (2005), Paige McClatchy (2006), and Mia Cooper (2007), and Ryan Whelan (2008)