The Isle of Man's underwater reputation just got even stronger. Kathryn Fowler from Castletown has achieved one of scuba diving's highest honours, earning the prestigious Wilkinson Sword Award for top instructor exam performance in 2025. This remarkable achievement makes her only the second Manx diver to qualify as a British Sub Aqua Club National Instructor – putting her among just 281 instructors worldwide in over 70 years of the organisation's history.

Fowler's success is the result of gruelling dedication, completing a year-long assessment spanning more than 20 modules covering everything from advanced dive planning to expert coaching techniques. Her excellence was recognised at the Go Diving Show, highlighting the calibre of talent being developed right here on our Island. What makes this victory particularly special is that it's the second consecutive year the Wilkinson Sword Award has returned to Discover Diving club – Michelle Haywood claimed the honour in 2024.

Michelle praised Kathryn's natural talent, describing her as a naturally gifted coach with meticulous preparation and exceptional practical skills. "The amazing diving in the Isle of Man really does help generate excellent divers who can become excellent instructors," she reflected. For visitors and locals seeking professional diving instruction, Fowler's credentials are world-class – proving that training with Isle of Man-based instructors means learning from the very best.

Source: Read full article on ManxRadio