Contact Us

Rich Stephens

Rich is Chair of the IOCA Committee and a Director of IOCA (UK) Ltd. He was previously Sailing Secretary for the Class and in that time, successfully delivered a number of IOCA UK events and led (with Richard Bourke) winning the bid to host the IODA European Championships in 2027. He is always approachable, so stop and have a chat. 

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is an RS200 or a Firefly (with his son, Oscar).

Richard Bourke

Richard is Vice Chair of the IOCA Committee and a Director of IOCA (UK) Ltd. He was previously Treasurer for the Class. Richard’s ability to multi-task and a never say no attitude is a trait that really benefits the Committee. He actively supports all the functions within IOCA UK and helps provide direction, when it is required. He will always make time for a chat, so stop him to say hi.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is a National 12 (with either of his children).

Graham Vials

Graham handles membership enquiries and advises the Class on Legal matters. He is Company Secretary and a Director of IOCA(UK) Ltd. Graham brings a wealth of experience with him, not only from a professional status but also because he is a multiple World Champion in the Flying Fifteen. Graham is also a Coach and has coached some very top-level sailors, so there is also a chance you may see him out on the water fulfilling this role.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is an Etchell.

David Campbell-James

President of IOCA (UK), Chair of the Selection Committee and Class PRO. David is an International Race Officer with decades of experience. He has had children in the Optimist Class and now has a granddaughter following in their foot-steps. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the Committee, that we are indebted to for his continued support of the Class.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail was a Tornado.

Vacant Position

If anyone feels they have the time and enthusiasm to help the Class continue to grow, please get in touch with Graham Vials.

Iain Marshall

Iain Marshall oversees on-the-water safety for the Class and manages the Safety Fleet at National events. Iain has been involved with the Class for a number of years and with that has gained a considerable amount of experience. Never wanting to remain still, he is also a Class Measurer and will be regularly found departing advice or making sure boats remain Class legal to sailors and parents/guardians alike.

On the water, Iain currently sails a Snipe but his favourite boat to sail was a 420.

Vacant Position

If anyone feels they have the time and enthusiasm to help the Class continue to grow, please get in touch with Graham Vials.

Matt Hannaby

Matt is the Regional Development Officer who works with the Regional Reps, to support and help promote the Class in those specific regions. Matt is a good first point of call, for anyone new to the Class, in finding out what is happening locally to where you live, should that be club run training or events. Matt is very knowledgeable and welcoming, so feel free to get in touch with him.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is an Etchell.

Nigel Evans

Nigel organises the IOCA UK National Training Program by working closely with the RYA, the Regions and Coaches alike to facilitate Coaching at all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or new to the Class, Nigel will be able to guide you on what’s happening Nationally (or who is best to speak to). He is always around for chat during events, so stop by and ask any questions.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is Yacht Cambria.

Suzie Holland

Suzie organises the IOCA (UK)/GBR teams visiting international events. Suzie has been involved with the Class for a number of years, having previously held the position of Sailing Secretary. Suzie brings a wealth of professional experience to the role, having worked for the RYA and many years in the marine industry. If you are keen to find out about how/where our GBR teams visit, please reach out to her.

On the water, her favourite boat to sail is an RS200, 29er or anything with her family onboard.

Fanny Rogers

Fan supports the Teams Officer in sending our sailors to international events. Fan and Suzie work very closely together, due to the nature of the role, by making sure everything in place for a safe and fun experience. Fan also has an incredible amount of experience, having also competed at a very high level of sailing herself back in her native country of Holland. She has previously been National and European Champion in the J22 Class.

On the water, her favourite boat to sail is an RS500 with her husband Nick.

Jason Foster

Jason manages the Class owned IOCA RIB’s, trailers and anything else equipment related. A lot of work happens behind the scenes, to make sure the Class has equipment available for not only IOCA events but also regional and club lead training as well as the logistics of getting the equipment to and from venues. Jason brings a considerable amount of professional experience to the role.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is a Mumm 30.

Sarah Renard

Sarah leads on child welfare and safeguarding issues for the Class. This entails maintaining our policies relating to safeguarding and having a close engagement with sailing’s governing body, the RYA. Sarah’s profession means she is the perfect fit for this role, with a wealth of experience.

On the water, her favourite boat is anything with a motor (and minus sails).

Al Green

Al is Head Measurer for the Class and advises and represents the Class on all technical matters. Al has worked in the marine industry throughout his professional career and brings a considerable amount of experience to the role. He currently works for SailGP, so can be regularly found at some of the best sailing venues in the World! For anyone looking for a Class Measurer locally to where they live or advice on purchasing an Optimist, please drop Al a message.

On the water, his favourite form of craft to drive is the Race Marks for SailGP.

Filippo oversees the recruitment and coordination of volunteers for IOCA events. Without parent/guardian support, the Class would not be able to put on any of the IOCA UK events across the country. If anyone is keen to explore the roles more and gain an insight into where they can assist (on the water safety, registration, bridge, tally etc.), then please get in contact with Filippo. Filippo has been a Committee member for a number of years now and is very approachable.

On the water, his favourite boat to sail is a 470.

Sarah Ellis

Sarah looks after all our Marketing, Communications and Social Media platforms. She provides regular updates as to what is happening in the Class and any standout achievements, both nationally and internationally. She also works with our Class sponsors and manages the relationship, to benefit both parties. 

On the water, her favourite board to sail is her wing foil (still learning).

Lola Andrews

Lola is the Coached Regatta Lead Coach. Lola helps to plan and deliver the programme for anyone who signs up to the Coached Regatta Fleet. Always smiley and happy, Lola is a great role model for introducing new and aspiring sailors to the IOCA UK circuit. Lola has been involved with the Optimists for many years, having previously come through the Class herself. If you have any questions about the Coached Regatta Fleet, please drop Lola a message.

On the water, her favourite boat to sail is an ILCA or Firefly.

John Perham

John is our Administrator and Events Manager at IOCA UK. John has many years of experience in the Optimist Class and contributes to all aspects of the day-to-day running of the Association. John was previously involved with the Olympic Games in 2012, at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. He can regularly be found in the Race Office at events and is always keen to meet anyone new into the Class, especially if it’s their first event. Without John, IOCA UK just wouldn’t function. And we are indebted to him for keeping the Committee in-check.

On the water, her favourite board to sail is a Fanatic Eagle with 5.3m sail.