I have now retired from full time work and can spend more time doing sailing stuff. Currently a World Sailing International Race Officer and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Race Management Co-Ordinator for Northern Ireland.  Fancy title but no fancy salary!  Actually no salary. 

The Co-Ordinators job is to organise and present Race Management training to the Clubs and Individuals in the region.  I run formal training courses in Race Management and Marklaying which can lead to official RYA qualifications and I can also go into individual clubs and help them run training for their members for local club racing or help a new race officer run their first open meeting.  I can also arrange talks on other aspects of the sport including handicapping, fleet safety, racing rules etcetera.

Early in 2019 I was appointed to the RYA National Race Management Committee so I can now play my part in shaping the future of our sport from the Race Management point of view,

I act as Race Officer for a number of events every year and am happy to have new or aspiring race officers as part of the team – best way to learn – go do it.  I have been involved in running several World and European Championships and in 2017/18 was part of the race management team for the Volvo Ocean Race which took me all round the world.

I can also advise on the writing of Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions whether it is for a Club an open event and in the case of several Classes I write their standard NOR/SIs each year.  If your Club or Class needs any help with this – just drop me a line.

Lastly, but not least, I am still actively sailing and competing, not as fit or fast as I used to be but the fun is still there.  I have just acquired a new RS Aero 7 which I hope to race locally and at championships.

Robin Gray IRO