RYA suspends organised activity in light of coronavirus spread

by Becky Gilbert-Wood 17 Mar 2020 22:04 UTC

In light of the developing situation around coronavirus (COVID-19), the RYA has taken the difficult decision to postpone its directly organised events and training until at least April 30.

Last night the government advised against mass gatherings, to minimise social contact and avoid non-essential travel to curb the spread of the virus.

The RYA's decision has been taken in response to these measures, to protect the health and wellbeing 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-organised events and training now on hold include:

• Non-essential competitive events at all levels including:
• 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
• RYA Instructor training and revalidations scheduled to run between 20 March and 30 April (dates beyond this timeframe will be reviewed in April).
• Regional Instructor Training Days
• Onboard Instructor Development Days
• RYA Club Development Forums
• RYA Disability Awareness Training
• RYA Race Official Training Courses
• RYA Race Official Regional Conferences

Sarah Treseder, CEO of the RYA, said: "We haven't taken this decision lightly, however it's important that we all play our part in combatting the spread of this virus. We are here to support members, affiliates and other stakeholders at this time and would strongly urge anyone with questions to contact us."

These measures only impact events and training directly organised by the RYA. We urge affiliated clubs, classes and training centres to review their own activities and carry out their own risk assessments using the latest guidance on coronavirus.

The latest government advice can be found here.

The RYA recognises that the situation in the UK is rapidly evolving, and we will continue to monitor it and respond accordingly to government advice. An update on further measures will be issued on or after April 30.

Richard Falk, RYA Director of Training and Qualifications, added: "Despite these measures, due to the international provision of RYA training it's business as usual for many of our training centres - depending upon their location and the nature of the courses they offer. If you're unsure about whether your course will go ahead please contact the centre you booked it with."

Alistair Dickson, Director of Sport Development at the RYA, said: "While we have brought these measures in to adhere to government advice on limiting the spread of coronavirus, it doesn't mean that people can't go sailing at all. In fact, getting out on the water can be a great way to look after your physical and mental health in these challenging times."

Further advice for clubs, classes and training centres, as well as boating the UK and abroad, can be found on the RYA website.

If you have any queries, please contact the RYA on 02380 604100.