Ricardo Blas is a prominent figure in the Olympic movement, particularly in the Oceania region. He has held the position of Secretary-General of the Oceania National Olympic Committees since 2009, following his role as Vice President of the same organization. His influence extends beyond Oceania, as he serves as a member of the Olympic Solidarity Commission and the ANOC Executive Council, as well as being a member of the ANOC Finance Commission. These roles underscore his significant contributions to Olympic governance and development on both regional and international levels.
In addition to his continental responsibilities, Blas has been deeply involved in the Olympic movement in his home country of Guam. He has served as the President of the Guam National Olympic Committee since 1991, a position he continues to hold. His leadership in regional sports organizations is further exemplified by his tenure as President of the South Pacific Games Council from 1999 to 2003, and subsequently as Immediate Past President of the Pacific Games Council from 2003 to 2011. Notably, he also served as the President of the 1999 South Pacific Games held in Guam, showcasing his ability to organize major sporting events.
Blas's involvement in sports extends beyond administrative roles. He is an Olympian himself, having competed in the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, where he had the honor of being Guam's first official flag bearer. His athletic achievements include gold medals in Judo at the Oceania and South Pacific Championships. Blas has also held leadership positions in Judo organizations, serving as President of the Oceania Judo Union from 1997 to 2001 and as Vice President (Oceania) of the International Judo Federation during the same period. He continues to serve as the President of the Guam Judo Association, a position he has held since 1974.
Outside of sports, Blas has had a distinguished career in public service. He served as the Director of the Customs & Quarantine Agency for the Government of Guam from 2002 to 2007, and previously held the position of Chief of the same agency from 1995 to 2001. His expertise in customs operations led to his appointment as Chairman of the Oceania Customs Organization in 2006. Blas's public service also included roles as an Advisory Committee Member to the Commanding Officer of the Naval Forces Marianas Island and as a member of the Parks & Recreation Commission under Governor Joseph F. Ada, demonstrating his commitment to serving his community beyond the realm of sports.