Olympian and Commonwealth Games record holder Clarance “Nicky” Saunders has joined the Bermuda Olympic Association as secretary-general, replacing the retiring Branwen Smith-King.

Saunders, who represented Bermuda in high jump at the 1984, 1988 and 1992 Olympics and holds the Commonwealth Games high jump record of 2.36 metres (7ft 8¾in) from his 1990 gold-medal performance in Auckland, returned to reside in Bermuda last year.

“I’m honoured to serve as secretary-general of the Bermuda Olympic Association and give back to the sporting community that shaped my life,” Saunders said.

“I look forward to helping Bermuda’s athletes access the support and opportunities they need to succeed.”

BOA president Peter Dunne is pleased to have secured such a high-profile former athlete for the role.

“With a wealth of sporting experience, coupled with a career in insurance plus an education in law, Nick brings to the BOA the broad skill set required for the secretary-general position, as exemplified by his predecessor, Branwen Smith-King,” Dunne said.

“We are fortunate to have had several highly qualified applicants for the position, and Nick was a standout in a field of excellence.

“He is enthusiastic in his approach to working with our member federations to help them deliver the best possible programmes for their athletes. His own experiences as an elite athlete can help the BOA continue to act with the interests of athletes first in the framework of the Olympic movement.”

The retirement of Smith-King comes after six years of growth for the BOA under her leadership as secretary-general.

“We knew that filling Branwen’s shoes was always going to be a difficult task, as she has brought a high level of sport administration process to our organisation as well as her enthusiasm for sport and athletes,” Dunne said.

“Her impact on the BOA and the sporting landscape of Bermuda has been tremendous and always professionally delivered. I’m sure that all our member federations appreciate Branwen’s contributions and the passion she brought to her role at the BOA.”