SINGAPORE: Mark Chay, president of Singapore Aquatics (SAQ), has been diagnosed with leukaemia and will not seek a second term as the national sports association’s chief executive. The 42-year-old confirmed his diagnosis with CNA on Wednesday evening (Jul 17).
The Straits Times first reported Mr Chay’s illness. His two-year term as SAQ chief ends in August. According to the report, he will prioritise his health and family and will not seek re-election to the position he assumed in June 2022. Mr Chay, a former national swimmer, made his Olympic debut at the age of 18 in the 2000 Sydney Games and competed again four years later in Athens. He was named Singapore’s Sportboy and Sportsman of the Year in 2001 and 2002, respectively.
SAQ must hold its annual general meeting by September 30, when an election for office bearers, if necessary, will take place. According to the Straits Times, Mr Chay has endorsed SAQ secretary-general Kenneth Goh for the association’s next president position. Mr Goh, 46, a former national swimmer, now works as an academic director and associate professor at Singapore Management University.
He is currently the chief development officer for the Global Esports Federation, a non-governmental organization based in Singapore that promotes e-sports.
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