The most exemplary candidate in 2023’s First Class Diver examinations has been bestowed the AP Diving Award by BSAC Chair, Edward Haynes.
Jim Burke of Aberdeen Sub-Aqua Club was judged to have delivered the most meritorious performance in 2023’s First Class Diver (FCD) examinations.
Sponsored by AP Diving, the AP Award is presented annually, along with a generously donated prize and BSAC certificate marking the occasion.
As a reward for his efforts, Jim chose brand new cylinders from AP for use with his rebreather.
Jim said:
I was so pleased to receive the AP Diving award for most meritorious First Class Diver candidate. It was entirely unexpected. In 2023, I chose to enter the FCD process, mainly to test my skills as a diver and to learn about areas of diving which I was unfamiliar with. The process was educational, enjoyable and certainly tested my knowledge - I got to meet some great divers with huge and varied experiences. I think the FCD exam was the only exam I have ever really stressed over, I was convinced I would fail - but it seems I did quite well.
I would really recommend the FCD process to anyone who has a good all-round experience of diving but wants to broaden and deepen that experience, it’s a unique qualification that no other agency can provide.
On presenting Jim with his certificate and award Edward Haynes, BSAC Chair, said:
As BSAC's top diver grade, First Class Diver is a remarkable achievement for anyone - and to stand out during the examinations is a credit to Jim's hard work, organisational and diving skills, and many months of preparation. Congratulations to him on becoming a First Class Diver, and we look forward to hearing where his new qualification takes him next.
Martin Parker, Managing Director of AP Diving commented:
We are immensely proud to support the BSAC First Class Diver Award, recognizing the pinnacle of excellence in diving knowledge, safety and skill in the underwater environment. Congratulations to Jim Burke for this outstanding achievement.
