RYA extends suspension of organised activity in light of coronavirus spread

In light of the developing situation around coronavirus, the RYA has taken the difficult decision to extend the current suspension of its directly organised events and training until at least 31 May 2020.

The latest government advice is for everyone to stay at home and only go outside for food, health reasons or work (where this absolutely cannot be done from home). It further advises people to stay 2 metres (6ft) away from others and to wash their hands as soon as they get home.

The RYA’s decision to extend the postponement of its directly organised events and training has been taken in response to these measures, to protect the health and well-being of participants, officials, organisers and volunteers, and to alleviate the risk of an additional burden on the emergency services at what is a hugely testing time.

RYA staff are now working from home, where it is possible for them to do so. We have also taken the decision to close the RYA’s buildings over the Easter break (4-19 April) with the majority of staff taking annual leave, as well as implementing the postponement or cancellation of much RYA activity over this period. The RYA-organised events and training on hold due to the revised postponement (through to the end of May) now include:

• Non-essential competitive events at all levels including:
  • Eric Twiname Championships
  • RYA Youth National Championships
  • RYA British Youth Sailing Squad Training
  • British Youth Sailing Junior Easter Camp
  • Women’s Winter Match Racing
  • Student Match Racing Championships
• Regional Instructor Training Days
• Onboard Instructor Development Days
• RYA Club Development Forums
• RYA Disability Awareness Training
• RYA Race Official Training Courses and Regional Conferences
• RYA organised instructor courses and revalidations
• RYA inspections are also postponed until it is safe and advisable for them to commence again

Sarah Treseder, CEO of the RYA, said: “It is vital that we all play our part in combatting the spread of this virus. Over the past few weeks most boating activity, whether racing, club, or social events has been cancelled and we have also seen the postponement of major sporting events such as the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Understandably and under normal circumstances, the RYA would not want to discourage recreational boating activity. However, these are exceptional times and we have not taken the decision to further extend our suspension of activity lightly. We are here to support our members, affiliates and other stakeholders at this time and would strongly urge anyone with questions to contact us.”

The RYA recognises that the situation in the UK is rapidly evolving, and we will continue to monitor it and respond accordingly to Government guidance. Further advice for clubs, classes and training centres, as well as recreational boating in the UK and abroad, can be found on the RYA website.

If you have any queries, please contact the RYA on 023 8060 4100.