and wedding present when he received the Bermuda Government's Athlete of the Year Award 1990-91 at a gala prize presentation at Elbow Beach Hotel.

Shortly after proudly accepting the award from the Premier Sir John Swan and after being congratulated by Minister of Youth and Sports Senator Pam Gordon, Bromby expressed the mild guilt he felt for being singularly highlighted for achievements in a sport which involved so many others.

"Naturally I am delighted to receive the award, but I feel that my crew deserve a part of it because, without them, I wouldn't have been nearly as successful. They were always there giving me great support,'' he said.

There surely couldn't be any argument over Bromby's selection because his accomplishments say it all.

In 1990 he captured the bronze medal in the Caribbean Games in Mexico in the J-24 Class and then started off 1991 by finishing fifth in the Pan Am Olympic Class Regatta in the Star Class in Miami.

Better things were to come for Bromby though. He followed that up by placing first in the International One Design Class in May during International Race Week -- an event he has won four straight years.

And, that same month he won the National Match Racing Championships in Etchell 22 Class.

In August of 1991 he was first in the International One Design Class in the IOD National Championships and his proudest moment came in September when he captured the prestigious World International One Design Championships in San Francisco.

"I know I had a pretty outstanding year but I was still surprised to have been chosen Athlete of the Year. It's great news after just returning from a somewhat disappointing Olympics. But something like this gives you the encouragement to keep going'' he said.

Even during last night's excitement it's clear that the chore of sailing is becoming tiring and Bromby admitted that he intends to rest for a few months after defending his title in World Championships at Marblehead, Massachusetts, on September 13.

Right now he is looking forward to celebrating his 28th birthday on August 26 and then he will prepare for the biggest regatta of his life when he sails down the isle to marry Carrol Madeiros in early October.

''I'm really looking forward to a long break from sailing after the Worlds,'' he said.

John F.Barritt and Son was the lone business receiving a citation for their involvement with the development of sport in the community. Other recipients of citations were Susan Lee of the Bermuda Ladies Hockey Association); the St.

John's Ambulance Brigade for their assistance at sporting events islandwide, St. Clair (Andy) Smith for his services to cricket, and Somerset Cricket Club, for its role in the development of soccer in Bermuda.

Receiving Achievement Awards were: Stephen Alger and Billy Way (tennis), Jennifer Fisher (track and field), Kim Marshall and Robert Vallis (golf), Brian Wellman (track and field).

Special Achievement Awards: Mr. Edward Bailey (cricket), Mrs. Joan Smith (golf).

WINNER -- Sailing sensation Peter Bromby.