JANUARY 27, 2023 (St. John’s, NL): At the Annual General Meeting, the Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee elected a new Board of Directors for 2023, with both President, Noelle Thomas-Kennell, and Vice-President/Captain of the Course, Ashley Peach returning for a second year in their respective positions.
“The 2022 season was a memorable year of both challenges and achievements, as we transitioned back to full Regatta operations following 2 years of pandemic restrictions and also marked “Come Home Year” and Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations,” said Noelle Thomas-Kennell. “The Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee is proud of last year’s Regatta and recognizes the importance its volunteers, staff and partnerships play in ensuring the success of such a large scale and beloved community event. We look forward to building on last year’s accomplishments and are excitedly counting down the days to the first Wednesday in August (weather permitting!).”
The Vice President of the Regatta Committee, Ashley Peach, also serves as Captain of the Course and is the individual responsible for all aspects of race day from schedule creation to the safety of participants and volunteers.
“Last year was certainly one of hard work, learning and growth for our organization. As we worked through the planning and challenges associated in preparing for each race day, I would find inspiration from the many rowers and crews, whose endless hard work and commitment to the sport undoubtedly makes up the heart and soul of the Royal St. John’s Regatta. Whether a first time squirt crew, or seasoned champions returning to the pond, we are all eager to see and celebrate the rowers many successes in this upcoming season,” said Ashley Peach.
The Regatta Committee, with its first iteration in 1826, consists of approximately 50 volunteers and is comprised of community members who generously donate time, skills and expertise based on their passion for fixed-seat rowing and the Regatta events.
The Committee is governed by the 11-person Board of Directors and continues to make strides in enhancing the event, while ensuring preservation of tradition and history. The members each hold a unique portfolio and are responsible for a specific area pertinent to Regatta Day and its associated events.
The 2023 Board of Directors includes the following elected volunteers:
• Noelle Thomas-Kennell, President
• Ashley Peach, Vice President
• Scott O’Brien, Secretary
• Mark Janes, Treasurer
• Bradley Power, Immediate Past-President
• Keith White, Director – Communications and Marketing
• George Wade, Director – Boathouse and Pond
• Jason Noseworthy, Director – Ground Space
• Shannon Brown, Director – Sponsorship
• Michelle Hickey, Director – Hospitality
The Royal St. John’s Regatta is the oldest continuing organised sporting event in North America, with 2023 marking the organisations’ 205th anniversary. More information about the Royal St. John’s Regatta, including details regarding operations, learn to row programs, learn to coxswain programs, and resources on how to establish a rowing team can be found at www.stjohnsregatta.com.
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Media Contact:
Keith White
Director, Communications & Marketing
T: (709) 693-2722