During the Easter holidays, the sailing team from the Royal Hospital School travelled to Ireland to compete in the Fastnet Trophy – the Irish Schools Team Racing Championship. Spirits were high as Team RHS gathered at the airport, ready for the challenge ahead. Upon arrival in Schull, Ireland, they were met with ideal conditions – strong breeze, well-prepared boats, and a warm welcome from the hosts. Racing began promptly at 1000hrs, marking the start of an intense and exciting few days on the water.  

The first day of racing was a great success, with over 8 hours of competition and 120 races completed. All 16 teams took part in a full round robin, each racing 15 times. By the end of the day, both RHS teams had performed exceptionally well, with RHS Blue finishing in 1st and RHS Navy close behind in 3rd. It was a brilliant start, but with such strong results came added pressure as the competition moved into its next stage.  

Racing was postponed on the second day due to strong winds, with gusts reaching 30 knots. Instead, the teams enjoyed a visit to Mizen Head, the most southwesterly point of Ireland and home to a historic signal station, followed by a relaxing afternoon at Barley Cove Beach. The change of pace was well received, and the sailors remained focused as they looked ahead to the final day.  

Racing resumed on the final day, with a strong but manageable breeze and cut-down sails in use. The competition split into gold and silver leagues, with both RHS teams earning places in the gold league. Each team had seven races to determine final standings. A key moment came early on when RHS Blue faced off against the Schull Sharks – the top two teams from the round robin. With a commanding 1, 2, 3 at the windward mark, RHS Blue secured a crucial win.  

RHS Blue remained unbeaten throughout the entire event, winning all 22 of their races to be crowned Fastnet Trophy 2025 Champions, an outstanding achievement. RHS Navy also delivered a strong performance, winning 14 of their 22 races to finish fifth overall. Their determination, teamwork and progression throughout the competition were commendable, and they were unlucky to narrowly miss out on a podium finish by one race win.  

Thanks go to the hosts at Schull Community College and the Fastnet Marine Outdoor Education Centre, along with KSail, for organising a fantastic event. RHS can be proud of both teams for their commitment, sportsmanship, and impressive success at the Fastnet Trophy. 

Congratulations, RHS Blue team Thomas D (Capt), Sam G, Sophia D, Izzy B, Toby S and Daisy A.