Ian Walker to step down as RYA Racing Director

Ian Walker © RYA

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has today confirmed that Ian Walker MBE will be stepping down from his position as RYA Racing Director.

Ian joined the RYA four and a half years ago and, in his dual role as Performance Director, he oversaw the British Sailing Team's success in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. Ian has also been instrumental to the strategic planning for the Paris 2024 Olympic cycle.

During the pandemic, Ian was central to the development of the RYA's Covid-19 response and enabling people back on the water as soon as possible. Well-known for his emphasis on high performance, Ian has also been passionate about youth and junior sailing and has prioritised the support of clubs and volunteers.

Commenting on his time at the RYA, Ian said: "I am very grateful to the RYA for believing and trusting in me when I was fresh out of professional sailing. I have learnt so much over the last four years and much of that I have learnt from the incredibly dedicated staff and volunteers I have worked with. It has been a very challenging time for everyone under the backdrop of Covid-19.

"I think now is a good time for me to leave as we are in a short lull between Olympic cycles and the RYA will soon be starting the process of creating their new strategy for the next generation. We have a very capable and enthusiastic senior management team, and under Sara Sutcliffe's leadership the future looks very promising for the RYA. It is a good time for me to take on a new challenge and give a chance for others to take on new responsibilities."

RYA CEO, Sara Sutcliffe, said: "I am of course sorry to see Ian leave the RYA and wish him the very best as he embarks on new challenges. His support to me in my first few months as CEO has been outstanding and I know he will be there to offer me advice in the future. The leadership he has brought to the British Sailing Team and the Racing Department will leave a lasting legacy. He will be missed by all his colleagues at the RYA."

Ian concluded: "The RYA has been part of my life since I was a youth sailor over thirty years ago. I now have a far greater understanding of the value that the RYA brings to sailing in this country and I hope I can continue to support them in the future."

Ian will continue in his role as RYA Racing Director until mid-July.

Everyone at the RYA will be sad to see Ian leave but he is wished the very best with his next steps.