Former national swimmer Mark Chay named as next SNOC secretary general

SINGAPORE: From Apr 1, former national swimmer Mark Chay will become the next secretary general of the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC), the organisation said on Tuesday (Feb 18).

The two-time Olympian swimmer will take over from Chris Chan, who has been in the role since 2002 and will be retiring.

“It is an honour to be appointed secretary-general of SNOC, and I am deeply grateful to Mr Chris Chan for his remarkable leadership and dedication to Singapore’s sporting fraternity over the past two decades,” said Mr Chay.

“His contributions have laid a strong foundation for the Olympic movement in Singapore and I am committed to building on his legacy.”

SNOC president Grace Fu paid tribute to the outgoing SNOC secretary general.

“His leadership has shaped the sporting landscape in Singapore, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation for his dedication,” said Ms Fu, who is also Minister for Sustainability and the Environment.

Mr Chan, who was part of the team that delivered the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, has helped to elevate Singapore’s presence on the global sporting stage over the years.

His leadership was also instrumental in Singapore’s Olympic success, most notably at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. The women's table tennis team clinched the silver medal to end the country's 48-year medal drought.

Having represented Singapore at the Olympic Games, Asian Games, SEA Games and Commonwealth Games, Mr Chay understands the aspirations and challenges of athletes, SNOC said.

He is also experienced in sports governance, having served as the chair of the SNOC Athletes’ Commission and Singapore Aquatics (SAQ) president, while he was a Nominated Member of Parliament from 2021 to 2023.

Minister for Culture, Community