New role for RYA Cymru Wales events officer

RYA Cymru Wales is saying farewell and good luck to Events Officer Sam Thomas as he embarks on a new stage of his career in watersports.

Sam was previously an RYA Senior Instructor at Cardiff Bay Yacht Club, then a Lead Instructor and Outreach Officer working with local schools.

He is now looking forward to returning to the club as its Chief Instructor after supporting events across the region for RYA Cymru Wales over the last year.

His part-time role as Events Officer has included contributing to the delivery of Dragon Series events and the recent Welsh Regional Junior Championships.

Sam said: “I’ve really enjoyed working with the RYA Cymru Wales team and it’s been really interesting to learn more about the incredible work that goes on behind the scenes to support Welsh sailing and boating.

“It has been a great experience to see first-hand what’s involved in events and a particular highlight for me was the Regional Junior Championships when the conditions allowed racing over two days.

“I’m now looking forward to getting back on the water more often in my new role and to working with RYA Cymru Wales as the Chief Instructor at Cardiff Bay YC.”

RYA Cymru Wales Chief Executive, James Stuart, said: “It has been a great pleasure working with Sam in his role as our first Events Officer. He has brought insight and imagination and a has a huge passion for our work and the boating community.

“It is sad to say farewell, but we are delighted we will be able to continue to work with Sam as the Chief Instructor at Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. I have no doubt he will add huge value to the club and wider community.”

Sam’s career on the water encompasses a range of RYA Instructor and Race Coach qualifications, and he is also looking forward to working with RYA Cymru Wales Performance Manager Sarah McGovern as the lead Optimist coach for the Welsh squads.

Find out more about RYA Cymru Wales or discover all upcoming events and courses in in the region at the RYA Events hub.