HRCA Undergoing changes

Honda Australia has announced that the Honda Riders Club of Australia (HRCA) will undergo changes to its management structure and operations in the coming months

, ultimately resulting in the Club being run in-house at the manufacturer’s headquarters in Melbourne.

HRCA was established approximately 15 years ago by long-time Honda corporate partners Rob and Val Watson who worked tirelessly to build the Club to include 150,000 cumulative members, and nearly 50,000 current members. In light of the Watsons announcing their retirement effective from the end of 2008, Honda Australia will assume all operations under the leadership of Rhys Griffiths.

Rhys has been with Honda Australia for 14 years, firstly as Manager of Honda Australia Rider Training (HART), followed by the role of Motorcycle Marketing Services Manager. Tony Hinton, Motorcycles General Manager said the Watsons have been "truly wonderful" ambassadors for Honda over many years.

"They are like family to many of us here at Honda as well as to many HRCA members, and we wish them all the best for their retirement." "At the same time, we are very excited about the future development of the Club."

Rhys, who is also an accomplished road and off road rider including a podium finish in the Finke Desert Race veterans class last year, will be responsible for managing the transition of HRCA to Honda’s headquarters in Melbourne before the end of this year. He will then assume full-time responsibility for the Club from early 2009.

"We are planning for some fantastic projects and events that we believe will continue to improve upon the great work that has already been established. I’m very much looking forward to the new challenge," Mr Griffiths said.