David Pescud OAM is set to be recognised for his outstanding contribution to the sport of sailing with the announcement of his induction into the NSW Hall of Champions. 

The announcement made by Sport NSW recognises his commitment to increasing inclusion and accessibility within the sport of sailing. His pioneering work includes a dedication towards creating opportunities for people with disabilities to experience the freedoms of sailing.

Pescud founded the Making Waves Foundation (formerly sailors with disAbilities) and skippered the first boat crewed by people with disabilities in the 1994 Sydney to Hobart yacht race. His crews have twice won their division in the Boxing Day Classic and the team still hold the World Sailing Speed Record for the fastest circumnavigation of Australia by a monohull yacht, set in July 2003 aboard KAZ. In 2023, he received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to people with disability.

Malcolm Page OAM, CEO Australian Sailing recognised Pescud’s contribution to the sport of sailing and congratulated him on the announcement.

"David’s contribution to sailing extends far beyond the water, making a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with disability. His dedication to making sailing accessible to everyone is helping create a more inclusive sport, where everyone has the opportunity to experience the freedom and enjoyment of sailing," said Page.

"On behalf of Australian Sailing we thank him for his significant contribution to our sport and congratulate him on his induction into the NSW Hall of Champions."

Pescud is being inducted this year alongside Stephen Davies(Hockey),Jennifer Luff(Rowing),Rick McCosker OAM(Cricket) and Kathleen Shannon-Bazzano (Cycling).

NSW Sport Hall of Champions Committee Chair, Alan Whelpton AO, congratulated the five inductees adding their distinguished careers earned them worthy selection.

“The five inductees are very worthy additions to the Hall of Champions. Each are recognised for their outstanding sports careers which saw them represent their country, state, sport, and themselves with distinction,” said Mr Whelpton.

“Their contribution to sport goes beyond the field of play. Through their unwavering dedication and steadfast commitment, they have shown the next generation of athletes the pathway to unleashing their potential and enjoy success at the highest levels,” added Mr Whelpton.

Sport NSW Chief Executive, Ellie Laing-Southwood paid tribute to the new inductees.

“Stephen, Jennifer, Rick, David and Kathleen exemplify the hallmarks of being a sports champion and we are thrilled to see them join an illustrious cohort of outstanding athletes. They have served their sport and the wider sports community with honour and distinction,” said Ms Laing-Southwood.

Hall of Champion inductees are approved by the Minister for Sport following recommendations from the Hall of Champions Selection Committee and NSW peak sporting bodies.

The NSW Hall of Championshttps://www.quaycentre.com.au/NSW-Hall-of-Champions is located at theQuaycentre, Sydney Olympic Park.

Tickets to the NSW Champions of Sport Ceremony are now available and can be purchased at https://www.sportnsw.com.au/events/384946