Chair’s statement


It gives me great pleasure to write my first Chair’s statement on our Association, following my appointment at last year’s AGM in November.


I must first start by expressing my sincere gratitude to Chris Preston for his steadfast leadership during his five years as Chair, and his invaluable handover support and guidance.


I feel privileged to have been selected as Chair. It is clear by the many conferences, shows and stakeholder events that I have attended that the RYA is far reaching and well-respected and its staff committed to our sport. I am also extremely grateful to our committees and the invaluable expertise they offer in their specialist areas.


I have also been impressed by the dedication and hard work of the thousands of volunteers, of all ages, across clubs and centres to our activities. Without them, many people, especially young people, quite simply would not get the opportunity to get out on the water.


I was elected as Chair at the early stages of our new ‘Together on Water’ strategy. I feel this is the right strategy for our times and for the development of the RYA. I’m aware not all our decisions will be popular, but it will guide us and help us take the lead as we continually evolve.


As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited and proud to be celebrating our 150-year anniversary. But evolving will be crucial if we are to continue to be relevant and benefit many lives through our recreational activities, and importantly, improve access and diversity within our sport. It is also important to support and nurture those who wish to pursue a pathway within our sport, whether that is competitively or as a career.


As you will read in the CEO’s Strategic Report, it has been another busy and varied year for your Association. But none of it could be done without you, our members. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support and look forward to meeting many of you in the coming year.


Professor Sir Michael Arthur Chair, RYA Board


RYA Annual Strategic Report 2024


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