As has already been reported, the new Racing Committee of RYAS first met in June 2006. Its specific purpose is to develop and support club racing in dinghies, keel boats and yachts in Scotland.

What broader remit could be imagined!

Why create this Committee?

In various sectors, there is concern over the numbers participating in racing, whether in dinghies, keelboats or yachts. Popular belief has racing in decline without necessarily being clear on why or what to do about it.

The Council of RYAS, after debate, decided that this committee should be formed to address the concern.

Who sits on the Committee and why?

The current committee is varied in composition to create a spectrum of experience and representation. There are currently 14 members of the Committee they include a former chairman of the 1720 Class World Council, World Champion dinghy sailor, experienced national and international sailors in various classes - small boat and large. All are passionate about their sport and that, together with their experience, determined their qualification for the Committee.

Being chairman of this Committee, meeting these people and experiencing their enthusiasm and passion for this sport is fantastic.

What is the Committee actually doing?

Inevitably it takes time to establish priorities and build momentum to achieve the action for which the Committee has been formed. Specific focus is being placed on examining the current provision of race officer training and race management. It is apparent that often, for many different reasons, the same people are involved in the work of running races and events for as long as such volunteers are enthusiastic and willing, so good. There is a concern however that this pool of volunteers is diminishing in number and experience this is one aspect on which it is hoped the Committee can propose solutions.

As a relative newcomer to RYAS, the number of volunteers working for the sport in its many different disciplines is striking. We therefore liaise closely with the High Performance Committee and the Participation Development Group it is essential that time and effort is not wasted in duplication or over-diversity of effort.

How can you help?

Tell the Committee what you think. Respond to requests for your views or information when it comes as it will. Without your interest in what this Committee is doing, and your input, its effectiveness is curtailed.

What s next?

Watch this space we are hopeful that this Committee can produce sensible and constructive proposals, and have them implemented, for the promotion of your sport - racing!

You can contact Jeremy and the Racing Committee through the RYA Scotland office, on 0131 317 7388, or by email.