Son of previous RYA president, Owen Aisher, Robin has always had sailing in his blood.
One of his most memorable achievements is winning an Olympic bronze medal at the Mexico City 1968 Games as skipper alongside Adrian Jardine and Paul Anderson in the 5.5 metre class.
Previous to his medal win, he was a competitor at both the Rome 1960 and the Tokyo 1964 Olympics (finishing in 6th and 11th place).
A leading yachtsman, Robin represented his country in many events including the prestigious Admiral’s Cup six times; four times winning and three times as captain. He was crowned Yachtsman of the Year in 1975.
Robin was a long-standing supporter of the work of the RYA. He was a member of RYA Council and served on many committees for over 34 years including Chair of Yacht Racing Committee. Robin was a personal member for over 70 years.
He was also Commodore of RORC and Admiral of Island Sailing Club, in addition to responsibilities with sporting organisations including the RNLI, Trinity House and ISAF (now World Sailing).
In acknowledgement to his achievements and services to the sport, Robin was awarded an OBE in the 1986 birthday honours.
Chris Preston, RYA Chair said: “Robin was an outstanding yachtsman of his generation, both though his many Olympic and Admiral’s Cup successes and for his years of service to the RYA Council, Racing Committees and other sporting bodies. His passion and commitment for sailing and boating were inspirational and made a great contribution to boating in the UK”.
The RYA extends its deepest condolences to Robins’ wife Val and family. The family have requested privacy and no flowers or cards to be sent for the time being.