In recognition of the current state of local circuit racing, which has been on a steep decline exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Charles Chen announced his plan to move the sport forward on Friday, August 16, at a club meeting at Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston.

“This time around the mandate is simple, we need a business partner. We need to hand the reins of the club to the younger generation,” he said.

Chen assumed leadership of Jamaica Race Drivers Club (JRDC) at the entity’s annual general meeting held on Saturday, July 27.

“I’m humbled by the outpouring of members that asked me to take on this task once again,” Chen told the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.

Chen previously led the JRDC in 2014. He is joined by Chressmore White, in dual roles of both vice-chairman and secretary, and Patrick Patterson, treasurer.

The club directors are Sara Misir, Ian Galbraith, Nicole Anderson, Ricardo Scott, Kevin Gardener, and Kedron Kennedy.

Going forward, JRDC, under Chen, plans to no longer organise race meets, but instead enter into a contract with an outside partner who will do so.

“The club is at a place where it needs rebuilding. The club just has to be a club for drivers. We’re not in the business of running a business,” he explained.

The team will review the offers it has received and arbitrate a final agreement on behalf of the JRDC.

Chen hopes that with the load of seeking sponsorship and promoting race meets moved away from the JRDC it can focus on the betterment of its membership.

As of now the traditional Heroes’ Day meet is currently under review as the JRDC is not only facing financial limitations, but major infrastructure issues at the famed Dover venue caused by Hurricane Beryl remain unresolved. Efforts are under way in pursuit of handling repairs.