Rising sailing star Sophie Ainsworth has been awarded the sport’s coveted Marlow Ropes award for the second time.

Ashford-born Ainsworth, 21, who also won the accolade in 2007, was chosen along with team-mate Sophie Weguelin after switching from part-time to full-time campaigning and finishing eighth in the 470 European Championship last month.

"It was really good to get eighth at the Euros," said Ainsworth (pictured).

"It was just after we had finished university so it shows with a bit more time and the support from our coach, we can do it."

The award entitles Ainsworth and Weguelin to free Marlow rope for a year, a financial boost which has also benefited previous winners, double World 470 champions Nic Asher and Elliot Willis and 2008 Olympic yngling gold medallist Pippa Wilson.

"It’s great to be recognised with this award. It shows that people really believe in us," said Ainsworth. "Rope is one of the main parts of the boat.

"It needs constant replacing and if you are not on top of it, can break and cost you places, races and then the event.

"So free rope for a year is great and a real help to us."

Picture: OnEdition