Kate O’Sullivan elected as British Rowing’s Deputy Chairman

October 14, 2017

British Rowing’s Council has elected Kate O’Sullivan as Deputy Chairman replacing Gary Harris

Saturday, 14 October 2017 – British Rowing’s Council has elected Kate O’Sullivan as Deputy Chairman replacing Gary Harris.

Kate O’Sullivan has committed over 35 years of service to rowing, having started rowing at Leeds University Union Boat Club in 1981. She has served the sport in numerous roles, at a club, regional and national level, and is currently Chairman of the Coaching Committee. As well as being an active member of the rowing community, Kate O’Sullivan has extensive business experience within engineering, research management and learning and development.

Kate O’Sullivan replaces Gary Harris, who is stepping down from his role as Deputy Chairman, which he has held for 16 years. Harris is stepping down on 31 October as he has already served the maximum time allowed on the Board and is, therefore, required to step down in order for British Rowing to comply with the UK Government’s Code for Sports Governance.

Commenting on the election of Kate O’Sullivan as Deputy Chairman, Annamarie Phelps CBE, Chairman of British Rowing, said: “While I am sorry to see Gary stand down, it is with enormous excitement that we welcome Kate O’Sullivan as Deputy Chairman of British Rowing. Kate has committed over 35 years of service to rowing and in particular to the Northern Region and Tees Rowing Club. She will bring excellent leadership, energy and passion to the Board. I have every confidence that Kate will make a significant contribution to British Rowing during her time as Deputy Chairman.”

Phelps added: “I would like to pay tribute to Gary for a lifetime of commitment to rowing. As well as a fantastic Deputy Chairman, Gary has been a great supporter of the sport across the country and has represented Great Britain’s interests internationally. Gary will remain a valued volunteer within the sport as he continues to provide support for our coach education programmes. I look forward to catching up with him on the riverbank over the coming months.”