The chief executive of the International Sailing Federation Jerome Pels has stepped down from his post following a 17-year spell with the organisation.
Pels first joined the Federation, which has 142 member national organisations, back in 1997, but has held the executive position for the last season.
"After 17 years, I believe I have accomplished most of which an individual can accomplish at any organisation," said Pels.
"I have made countless friends, visited more places than I could ever have imagined and faced numerous challenges most of which I am pleased to say I was able to overcome. I leave behind a healthy organisation and a great staff whom I will dearly miss."
The organisation has more than 100 ISAF classes.