"Delighted": Olympic Bronze medallist sails to MBE selection
A man from Poole has been awarded an MBE for his services to sailing
Last updated 17th Jun 2023
An Olympic bronze medallist from Dorset will receive an MBE from the King for his services to sailing.
Peter Allam MBE, 63, told us “he was taken by the surprise” when he chosen to be a recipient of the exclusive title, he added: “I went through a range of emotions and then I felt quite privileged that others had considered me and put my name forward.”
Peter Allam represented Great Britain four times in the Flying Dutchman Class with his best coming at the 1984 Los Angeles Games alongside Joe Richards.
He said: “At the time, it didn't feel like the best outcome because we were favourites for a gold, but after further reflection, I’m very grateful to actually have come away with a medal.”
The 63-year-old has been involved in sailing from a very young age and continued to have a role in the sport long-after retirement.
In 2012, he was appointed the Olympic and Paralympic Games Sailing Competition Manager where he was responsible for organising, what’s considered, “the most successful and well-organised Olympic Regattas in modern times.”
The esteemed sailor has since been consulted by organising committees of subsequent Games.
The following year, he became CEO of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA). He set a vision for the WPNSA to become the UK’s centre of excellence for sailing from beginner to elite level, whilst also bringing world and national championships to Dorset.
Peter Allam said: “I've been extremely passionate about Sailing for a very long time, it’s fantastic to be involved with the sport and just get out onto the water.
“What I’ve really taken great pride in is that the Sailing Academy offers so many people, whether you’re a girl or boy, disabled or able bodied, there’s an opportunity to get on the water.”
Chesil Sailability was subsequently formed in 2013 with the goal of bringing joy and health benefits to disabled people. Thousands of new sailors have since taken up the sport as a result.
Peter Allam said: “It's so rewarding to be involved in facilitating that,” Peter added.