Meet Your New RAYC Flag Officers
Following the RAYC AGM on Monday the 28th of August 2023 we have welcomed some new faces to the RAYC Flag Officer team, and farewelled some old and very familiar ones.
It is with great appreciation that we welcome Nick Hanson as he takes the helm as Commodore of Royal Akarana Yacht Club. Nick’s dedication and unwavering commitment to the Club’s mission has been evident over the past six years during his tenure as Vice Commodore and his leadership as the Chair of the Sailing Committee. His tireless efforts have not only propelled the Club’s sailing activity but have also fostered a strong sense of community among members. As Nick assumes this important role, we look forward to his continued guidance and are confident that his passion for sailing and supporting sailors will ensure the Royal Akarana Yacht Club continues to excel and grow.
“The upcoming season brings plenty of activity to RAYC across a number of formats; Opti & Starling Akl Champs, 12’ skiff Interdomionss & Auckland to Noumea race to name a few. We hope there’s something for everyone, whether it be spectating, volunteering, sailing or paddling – the Club has a very exciting season planned and we’re looking forward to seeing both new and familiar faces at Akarana. – Nick Hanson, RAYC Commodore
With heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation, we thank Jason Morgan for his leadership during his remarkable three years as Commodore. His unwavering dedication has been instrumental in steering us through challenges posed by the likes of COVID-19, completing the construction of the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre, cyclones, and more. Under his guidance, the Royal Akarana Yacht Club has not only weathered these storms but emerged stronger and more resilient. Jason’s commitment to our community, and willingness to help at any regatta or race, has been a source of inspiration for us all. He could be found at the Club more often than not and supported every club event; big or small. He volunteered at most Club race days, and regattas, hosted and attended almost all of the on-shore social activities and became a seasoned professional at club Quiz Nights winning his fair share! As we reflect on his tenure, we are immensely grateful that he is not going far and look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role as Rear Commodore.
We are also excited to announce Egbert Segers as the new Sailing Committee Chair. Egbert received the Volunteer of the Year award at our season prize-giving last month, and his passion and dedication to the Club make him the ideal leader to steer the committee through these exciting times. With the sailing academy going from strength to strength and a rapidly increasing number of regattas being hosted at RAYC, Egbert’s vision and strong organisational skills will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in delivering our sailing events and fostering the growth of our sailors.
To view all of the 23/24 Season Flag officers – please click here.
A special mention should also be made of Mark Taylor who received a Life Membership. Mark was nominated by fellow General Committee member John Cooper, for his passion and commitment to the Club. Mark Taylor was instrumental in the development of the new Centre and was a founding Trustee of the Akarana Marine Sports Charitable Trust. Congratulations Mark on a well-deserved Life Membership.
