Sandridge, Tinker to Be Honored by WSIA

Marine publishing icon and boatbuilding titan to be awarded for lifetime achievement by the Water Sports Industry Association.
WSIA Leadership Awards
WSIA Leadership Awards honor leaders who embody passion, integrity, and long-term commitment to the industry. Courtesy WSIA

Editor’s Note: Glenn Sandridge recently retired as the long-time head of the group overseeing Boating, Wakeboarding and a portfolio of other marine media brands. Learn about the honor, he and boat building executive, Rick Tinker, will receive in the press release from the Water Sports Industry Association, below.

We are proud to announce the 2026 WSIA Leadership Awards – Lifetime Achievement honorees, recognizing two individuals whose careers have made a lasting impact on the marine and towed water sports industries.

Glenn Sandridge WSIA Lifetime Award
Glenn Sandridge is to be awarded by WSIA. Courtesy WSIA

Glenn Sandridge

Glenn Sandridge’s career exemplifies Lifetime Achievement in the marine industry. Over decades of leadership and service, he has earned a reputation as a trusted voice whose experience, insight, and steady presence helped guide colleagues and partners through both strong and challenging times. As president of Firecrown’s marine group, Glenn helped shape one of the industry’s most influential media portfolios, advancing excellence in marine marketing and storytelling. His impact was further recognized when he received the inaugural Sally Helme Memorial Marketing Leadership Award, honoring leaders who embody passion, integrity, and long-term commitment to the industry.

Read Next: Pass The Handle Week is Here!

Rick Tinker WSIA Lifetime Award
Rick Tinker is to be awarded by WSIA. Courtesy WSIA

Rick Tinker

Rick Tinker’s more than 40-year career represents Lifetime Achievement in towed water sports. Beginning in 1996, Rick led Skier’s Choice, transforming it into one of the most influential brands in the category and today the fourth-largest inboard manufacturer in the world, following earlier executive leadership roles at MasterCraft. Beyond company success, Rick has been a dedicated advocate for the broader industry through long-standing service to the WSIA, 20 years on the board of Independent Boat Builders Inc. including four as Chairman, and involvement with NMMA. Known for supporting athletes and industry professionals across brands, Rick’s impact has strengthened the sport as a whole.

Please join us in congratulating Glenn Sandridge and Rick Tinker, who will be honored at the 2026 WSIA Summit, which will be held in Lake Tahoe, California, February 25-26, 2026.