We’re sad to share that, after 13 years with the UK RS Class Association, Sally will be retiring at the end of this calendar year.
During her time with us, Sally has played an enormous part in the growth and development of the RS fleets, our events and our wider class community. From developing relationships with clubs, partners and sponsors, to managing the secretariat team and supporting sailors and committees across the country, her contribution has been both wide-ranging and invaluable.
Behind the scenes, Sally has attended countless meetings, worked her way through more NoRs and SIs than anyone should have to, created hundreds of spreadsheets covering everything from results to budgets and liaised with sailing clubs up and down the country to deliver an impressive number of events. There is an enormous amount of work that goes into keeping our classes running smoothly and Sally has consistently approached all of it with her characteristic professionalism and attention to detail.
For many of you, however, it will be at events where you have got to know Sally best. Her patience, calmness, approachability and professionalism have always shone through, even when faced with the inevitable challenges that come with running sailing events! But alongside all of that, Sally is also great fun and, as many of you will know, something of a party animal! She has been an integral part of the RS social scene over the years, bringing energy, enthusiasm and plenty of fun to the celebrations long after the sailing has finished. I know that for many sailors and volunteers, Sally has been much more than a class secretary – she has become a valued friend and a familiar face at RS events across the country.
We are incredibly grateful for everything Sally has contributed over the past 13 years, and she will undoubtedly be missed by sailors, volunteers, clubs and the whole RS team.
On a personal note, Sally has been a wonderful mentor to me and has given me a masterclass in how to do this job well. I have learned a huge amount from her and for her guidance, patience and support, I am genuinely very grateful.
Please join us in thanking Sally for everything she has done for the RS Class Association and in wishing her every happiness for her retirement. We hope this next chapter brings her plenty of time to enjoy the things she loves – and that we’ll still see her at RS events from time to time, whether on the water or enjoying the social side!
Sally, thank you for everything. You will be very much missed and we wish you all the very best for the future.
Laurie.
