This in from George Chastney, in his own words. Ed
Cowes RNLI lifeboat crew member, Max Rimington, has for the second time demonstrated that youth need be no barrier to achieving officially recognised seamanship skills.
With the minimum age set at 18 for anyone qualifying for a Yacht Master Offshore Certificate, Max has managed to do just that only four days after his 18th birthday. Last year, not long after his 17th birthday, he was assessed as being good enough to be accepted as a fully fledged lifeboat member.
“The Yacht Master achievement at such a young age is a rare achievement, and can only add to his expertise as one of our volunteer crew,” said lifeboat operations manager Mark Southwell. “He is keen, competent and committed – and a natural on a boat.”
Sailing since the age of six
Max said he had started sailing at the age of six when he was living with his parents in the Channel Islands, and continued when his family moved to Asia and then to the Island.
“Sailing has been pretty much my life,” he said. “I decided to join the RNLI at Cowes when at the age of 16 I was recommended to do so by a former crewman.
“I like all the training – it’s great fun and very valuable,” he added.
A sixth former at Medina High School, Max is currently studying for the International Baccalaureate, and has ambitions to become a marine engineer.
