The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club today announced it has elected Bermudian Ralph Richardson as the first black Commodore in its162-year history.

Mr. Richardson, executive director of the ACE Foundation, was the club’s first black flag officer three years ago and has been elected as Commodore for 2008 to 2010. He will be installed in January.

Current Commodore Andrew Cox said: “We at the RBYC are proud to have a man of Ralph Richardson's stature, both as a sailor and a businessman, to serve as our next Commodore.

“Ralph will have an exciting time as Commodore during the 101st year of the Newport Bermuda Race and in managing the development of our physical facility at the yacht club. I wish him all of the best during his term of service.”

See tomorrow's Royal Gazette for the full story.