Nov. 25, 2004 – International umpire Henry Menin of St. Thomas has been selected the second-ever recipient of the Colorcraft Umpire Recognition Award for his dedication to match-racing, according to caribbeanracing.com.
Menin has been an international umpire since 1995. Match racing is boat-on-boat sailboat racing, like the America's Cup.
"I'm truly humbled by this recognition," Menin said in his acceptance speech. "My first reaction was one of disbelief."
The award, created by Swedish Match Tour sponsor Colorcraft, recognizes the top umpire on the tour based on the criteria of fairness, respect and congeniality, according to the Web site.
Menin played an active role helping organize the on-water structure of the new Portugal Match Cup, which debuted last July as the first event on the 2004-2005 Swedish Match Tour.
Among the many people Menin thanked in his acceptance speech were the spouses of umpires around the world, including his own, for putting up with their constant traveling.
"Our spouses make it possible for us to umpire when we should probably be staying at home making a living. I thank all of them, and particularly my wife, Fredelle, who keeps telling me, 'Go, it's what you love to do.'"
Last year the award went to Wayne Boberg of Australia, the Web site said.