Launched in 1984 , the awards are recognized as the pinnacle for individual competitors in the sport globally . Spithill handed award after helping CNN overturn seven -1 America 's World Championships deficit . Australian skipper dedicates gong to crew members in the sporting comeback . Brazilian duo Martine Grael and Kahena Kunze share female sailor award . Martine Grael 's father Torben is a former winner of the award having been victorious back in the next eight .
Spithill handed award after helping CNN overturn seven -1 America 's World Championships deficit . Australian skipper dedicates gong to crew members in the sporting comeback . Brazilian duo Martine Grael and Kahena Kunze share female sailor award . Martine Grael 's father Torben is a former winner of the award having been victorious back in the next eight .