This year’s 5th edition of UIM Awards Giving Gala has been undoubtedly a huge success. Organized at the Salle des Etoiles in the Principality of Monaco, it was an amazing event, where a remarkable audience gathered to crown the last Powerboating season champions and the prominent UIM Awards winners. The event was opened by HSH Prince Albert II in front of 500 guests, which comprised VIPs, national authorities, celebrities, as well as the UIM World Champions and Awards winners.

Prince Albert II and UIM President Dr. Raffaele Chiulli

Monaco gave again a warm welcome to all the Powerboating stakeholders and fans convened from all over the world. Over 60 UIM World Champions from 40 different countries attended the UIM yearly event receiving their well deserved honours. During the Ceremony, the 2013 UIM Environmental Award Winner (Columbus Yachts, 40S Hybrid yacht) and the three UIM Special Mentions (Azimut-Benetti Group, Vripack and VSY) received their recognitions.

This year the Stefano Casiraghi Memorial Trophy has been awarded to Her Royal Highness Princess Ann, Royal Yachting Association President. The RYA is the driving force behind the dedicated training and racing section who constantly strive to reach the highest achievements. The UIM Safety Award in the name of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has been given to the Bergamo Scuba Angels for their continuous efforts in performing and improving all the rescue operations in Powerboating races.

The group of Champions

The UIM President Dr. Raffaele Chiulli stated: “Let me thank HSH Prince Albert II that honoured us with his presence at the cocktail reception and the President of SportAccord Mr. Vizer and all the Presidents and authorities of International Sport Federations who were with us at the Night of our World Champions. We will continue to serve all our stakeholders and our sport’s growth and development through values such as loyalty, dedication and passion. Our World Champions are the best ambassadors for our sport and for our values. We are also proud to be a proactive member of our larger sport family, the ARISF, SportAccord and the overall Olympic Movement and that’s why to keep this large family united and successful we need team spirit among sports, among federations among nations and among our athletes who make our values and message tangible for millions of people worldwide. I do believe that we all, together, can build a bright future.”