Bill Coxwell Receives 2026 Distinguished Service Award
Date: October 19, 2026Sail America also names 2026 Best in Show Award winners at the Annapolis Sailboat Show
Annapolis, MD (October 19, 2026) – Annapolis Boat Shows presented the 2026 Distinguished Service Award to Bill Coxwell at the Sailing Industry Breakfast on Friday, October 16, during the Annapolis Sailboat Show. The award recognizes more than five decades of service to his South Texas community and the sailing world.
In 1969, Coxwell became one of the founding members of the Rockport Yacht Club, and he has helped shape its growth through multiple leadership roles ever since. He was instrumental in starting the Rockport Nautical Market, which has served as an important club fundraiser for 25 years and draws sailors and boating enthusiasts from all over. He has also brought people of all ages onto the water through regattas, Sunfish series races, youth regattas, boat workdays, and cruising.
Together with his father, Coxwell created the process behind C Cushions to solve the problem of soggy boat cushions. More than 45 years later, C Cushions can be found on boats around the globe, and the same innovation has served medical, flight training, and commercial applications. Among fellow boat show vendors, Coxwell is just as well known for his good humor and his pranks.
Those closest to Coxwell say his greatest contributions happen out of the spotlight. During this year’s Texas 200, a fellow sailor broke both daggerboards in a storm. Coxwell opened his shop and gathered friends, and by morning they had built new daggerboards so the sailor could continue the race.
Coxwell was nominated by Brenda Hudson, the new owner of C Cushions, who describes him as both a professional mentor and a sailing mentor. “Bill Coxwell has not simply served his community,” Hudson wrote. “He has shown others what it means to serve.”
Sail America Best in Show Awards
Sail America also announced the winners of its 2026 Best in Show Awards, which recognize Annapolis Sailboat Show exhibitors for standout booth and boat displays.
Best Booth Display, 200 Sq. Ft. and Under: Sero Sailing
Sero Sailing won for its community-building map activity, kind and engaging staff, and inviting atmosphere.
Best Booth Display, Over 200 Sq. Ft.: Further Customs
Further Customs earned the award for its eye-catching display, enthusiastic and approachable staff, and great use of space.
Best Boat Display, Fewer Than Four Boats: HH Catamarans
HH Catamarans stood out for its sleek display design, open and inviting layout, and bold branding.
Best Boat Display, Four or More Boats: Hanse
Hanse was recognized for its knowledgeable and friendly staff, focus on product sustainability, welcoming environment, and easy boat access.
Best in Show: The Moorings
The Moorings took top honors for its accessible and inviting display, areas for relaxing and networking, collaboration between brands, polite staff, and clear informational materials.
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Annapolis Boat Shows
Founded in 1970, Annapolis Boat Shows is the producer of the world’s first and largest in-water sailboat show and a leader in premier marine events. The company hosts four annual shows on the Chesapeake Bay — including the Annapolis Sailboat Show, Annapolis Powerboat Show, Bay Bridge Boat Show at Safe Harbor Narrows Point, and Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show — that draw tens of thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibitors from around the world. Guided by its mission to foster a thriving boating community, Annapolis Boat Shows promotes accessibility, education, community, and sustainability while setting the standard for marine events worldwide.
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Media Contact
Ryan Gullang
ryan@annapolisboatshows.com
(410) 268 8828