First 15 members of sailing hall of fame announced

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - The National Sailing Center and Hall of Fame has named its first 15 inductees.

The Annapolis-based organization announced the names of inductees, Americans who have made a significant impact on the development of the sport, on Tuesday after considering nominations from sailors nationwide.

CNN founder Ted Turner, who was an America's Cup winning helmsman and four-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, has made the list. Surfboard industry pioneer Hobie Alter also is being inducted, along with U.S. Disabled Sailing Team coach Betsy Alison, who is a five-time Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year.

Author and sailing commentator Gary Jobson, of Annapolis, also is being inducted.

The National Sailing Center and Hall of Fame is a nonprofit educational institution dedicated to preserving the history of the sport.