The Admiral James H. Higgins, III Award is presented in honor of James H. (“Jay”) Higgins and his extraordinary service. From the time the first Regatta was held in 1971, Jay assumed leadership roles as a participant, Commodore and Admiral. Jay was instrumental in designing and implementing many of the procedures and policies that continue in use today. His attention to detail and quality earned the Regatta the respect of numerous supporters. Despite his official retirement as Admiral in 1989, Jay continued to generously support the Regatta, including by serving on the Board of Directors and promoting the participation of the Spectator Fleet. Jay passed away in 2017, but his legacy lives on with each annual Regatta.
The Admiral James H. Higgins, III Award is presented annually to the enthusiast who, in the opinion of the Commodores, best demonstrates the enthusiasm, spirit and dedication for the Regatta as exemplified by Jay.
| PAST RECIPIENTS | |
| 2017 | JANE LOVE |
| 2016 | ROGER SMITH |
| 2015 | JAMEY RHOADES |
| 2014 | TOM & BARBARA WALDEN |
| 2013 | NED & CREE SCUDDER |
| 2012 | ANNELIE RANDALL |
| 2011 | VALERIE IRELAND |
| 2010 | PEGGY BEEBE |
| 2009 | MARY UGHETTA |
| 2008 | CONNIE & PETER GEISLER |
| 2007 | BARBARA WALDEN |
| 2006 | SARAH JANE DEHOFF |
| 2005 | GREG REISS |
| 2004 | SUE RIGGINS |
| 2003 | ROBERT BONNER |
| 2002 | ELLEN WINN |
| 2001 | PETER SPINO |
| 2000 | JANICE THOMAS |
| 1999 | SCOTT WOLCOTT |
| 1998 | MICHELLE SPINO |
| 1997 | THOMAS A. WEY, JR |
| 1996 | ROBIN ASHWORTH |
| 1995 | MISSY GEISLER |
| 1994 | MARTHA DEHLI |
| 1993 | PETER ROLAND, JR. |
| 1992 | MACIE HUWILER |
| 1991 | CONNIE GEISLER |
| 1990 | JOHN WILKINS |