From Caroline Searle
Sir Andrew Foster, deputy chairman of Royal Bank of Canada Europe Ltd, has today been appointed as the chairman of the Commonwealth Games Council for England (CGCE) – the organisation responsible for managing Team England at each Commonwealth Games.
The Council approved the appointment unanimously. Sir Andrew’s role as external Chair of the Council is an innovative move for the sports body, which was founded in the 1930s, but which is seeking to re-brand, draw on external expertise and to raise its profile in the lead-up to the Games of 2010 in Delhi.
Sir Andrew’s business acumen, as well as his knowledge and love of sport, will be key factors for an organisation that is already renowned for its ability to prepare and manage the Games team.
Sir Andrew said: “The Commonwealth Games is known as ‘The Friendly Games’ because it is a wonderful multi-national and multi-cultural event which truly epitomises internationalism.
“Sport is something I have always been absolutely passionate about. It is beneficial to society in so many ways, encouraging self-expression, friendship and understanding.
“I feel very honoured and privileged to be appointed Chairman of the Commonwealth Games Council. I very much intend to bring together my interest for sport and experience of business and government to ensure that Team England takes every opportunity leading up to the next Games in Delhi in 2010.â€
Sir Andrew will work with the Council to shape a Management Board with expertise to address key areas such as sports performance, marketing and sponsorship.
“I am sure that we will be the subject of intense focus in 2010 in Delhi as the nation builds to the staging of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London,” Sir Andrew said. “The Games will be seen as a barometer of progress across the Olympic sports. I am sure we will see new names emerge at those Games. It’s important that we deliver our core services to the usual high standard but equally important that we create the right profile and level of support.â€
Competitors of world-class calibre of Denise Lewis, Daley Thompson, Jessica Ennis, Adrian Moorhouse and James Hickman, gymnast Annika Reeder and Audley Harrison as well as shooter Mick Gault all initially made their names at “the Commonwealthsâ€.
In addition, the Games provide a unique elite multi-sport experience for a range of non-Olympic sports including netball, rugby 7s and lawn bowls.
For further information contact:
Caroline Searle 01225 383518 or 07831 755351.