Gary Snyder running for re-election as masters chair

In an email note about the USOC-imposed restructuring of USATF, Masters T&F Chairman Gary Snyder explains his absence from USATF board meeting that decided to expel masters from the board (Gary had scheduled vacation with potential loss if travel canceled). Gary also says he’s decided to run for a full term as chairman this winter at the annual meeting in Reno. (His current term is for two years, finishing George Mathews’ stint after he resigned in 2006.) “Speaking of the future,” Gary writes, “many of you have asked me if I intend to run for reelection and my answer is yes. I view restructure as a significant opportunity for positive change and intend to provide the leadership.”

Here is Gary’s note to his committee:

United States Olympic Committee USOC Mandated Restructure
Hi Everybody,
By now we have all read the AP Press release from USATF regarding restructure which has generated speculation how it will effect Masters Track and Field. The current USOC mandate dates to 2006 before my term on the USATF Board of Directors began (Dec 2007). In addition to the annual meeting the BOD meets in person in June and October. The BOD voted to suspend restructure activity until after the December 2008 elections during the June 2007 meeting. An exchange of testy letters with USOC resulted in the latest mandate to submit a restructure plan by end of month or face punitive action.
The June BOD meeting was originally scheduled for June 7 & 8 and changed by BOD vote to June 21 & 22. Unfortunately I had previously scheduled my vacation for that period and could not change my plans without penalty. During our June 18 MTF Executive Committee conference call we discussed sending a replacement but I explained that without the background information it would be a waste of time and money.
I cannot share any additional details at this time and neither can other BOD members therefore any information other than the press release is rumor or speculation. In my opinion MTF will not have a seat on the restructured BOD. Any proposed restructure will have to be approved by the voting representatives at this year’s annual meeting. This week in Eugene, OR Law and Legislation is meeting to begin drafting those changes. Becky Sisley will continue to be a temporary L&L representative until a replacement for her can is found. If interested contact me.
The MTF Executive Committee will meet via conference call on July 22 and in person on August 6 in Spokane, OR to discuss our future.
Speaking of the future many of you have asked me if I intend to run for reelection and my answer is yes. I view restructure as a significant opportunity for positive change and intend to provide the leadership.
Don’t be part of the rumor mill email or call me.