Incoming SNOC secretary-general Mark Chay wants to groom next generation of sports leaders
Sign up now: Get the biggest sports news in your inbox
Former national swimmer Mark Chay will be the new secretary general of the Singapore National Olympic Council.
PHOTO: ST FILE
Follow topic:
SINGAPORE – Regarded as one of Singapore sports’ young leaders at 43, Mark Chay, the incoming Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) secretary-general, is already looking forward to grooming the next generation of leaders.
The former national swimmer, who will replace veteran administrator Chris Chan
“I envision a future where Singapore plays a significant role in the international sports community, contributing talent, expertise and innovative ideas that leave a lasting impact. A youthful renewal of sports leadership is vital to achieving this vision.
“By combining fresh perspectives with the wisdom and experience of seasoned leaders, we can drive innovation, adapt to evolving challenges and build a sustainable foundation for Singapore’s sporting excellence.”
The SNOC had engaged an international executive search and management consultancy in its hunt for its next secretary-general before deciding on Chay. Having represented Singapore at the Olympic, Commonwealth, Asian and SEA Games, Chay went on to accumulate experience as a sports administrator.
In recent times, he was the chairman of the SNOC’s athletes’ commission, member of the Olympic Council of Asia’s athlete committee, coach of Paralympic swimming champion Yip Pin Xiu, and a former Nominated Member of Parliament. Chay, who will step down as SNOC vice-president
Chay said: “These roles have shaped my understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sporting ecosystem. I deeply believe in creating safe and supportive environments where athletes can thrive, places that nurture their development, enable competition at the highest levels and inspire excellence.”
He also noted the concerns of sports administrators and recognised that it is crucial to “nurture a strong pipeline of passionate volunteers and committed administrators who can take the helm in the future”.
Chay is also serving notice as chief development officer at Global Esports Federation, and was the Singapore Aquatics president until his two-year term ended in August 2024, when he stepped down to spend more time with his family
He shared that he is responding “very well” to treatment from his medical team at the Centre for Clinical Haematology.
“My condition is stable and the treatment has no significant impact on my quality of life or daily activities, which allows me to take on this role confidently,” he added.
Chay paid tribute to Chan, who has been SNOC secretary-general for 23 years, in which Singapore hosted the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in 2010, and won a total of a gold, a silver and three bronze medals across four editions of the Olympics in 2008, 2012, 2016 and 2024.
He said: “I want to build on the strong foundation he has laid. My immediate priority is to stabilise the secretariat and ensure that current projects are progressing smoothly.
“Once we have achieved that, we can start exploring new initiatives to support our athletes, enhance national sports development and strengthen our position within the international sports community.”
Chan told ST that even as he looks to take a long break and indulge in hobbies like hiking, he will still be available to help Chay as the SNOC plans for the 2025 SEA Games, and the Commonwealth and Asian Games in 2026.
Looking back at his journey, he added: “The SNOC team has been nothing short of outstanding. Though small, we have been a lean, dynamic and dedicated group.
“It has been nothing short of amazing – challenging at times, but deeply meaningful and fulfilling. It was never just about getting the job done; it was about creating a lasting impact, especially for the athletes.”
SNOC president Grace Fu said in a statement: “We are deeply grateful for Chris Chan’s outstanding service to SNOC and Singapore sports. His leadership has shaped the sporting landscape in Singapore and we extend our heartfelt appreciation for his dedication.
“As we look ahead, we are confident that Mark Chay’s experience, passion and vision will further propel the Olympic movement in Singapore and support our athletes in achieving sporting excellence.”
Mr Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth also paid tribute to Chan, noting in a social media post that “he has spent a dedicated 23 years in this role, working hard to instil a deeper sense of sporting excellence in Singapore”.
He added: “I think (Chay) is an excellent choice for this role, having dedicated his life to sport – first as an athlete, then as a sporting leader.
“Above all, we will benefit from Mark’s utter dedication to sports and his unshakeable belief in the immense value of sports to the development of society...
“I know Mark will be modest about his role, but will carry a quiet but steely resolve as he goes about his work, in the true spirit of a champion.”
David Lee is senior sports correspondent at The Straits Times focusing on aquatics, badminton, basketball, cue sports, football and table tennis.
