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Since 2009, TSYT has taken part in the RORC Rolex Fastnet Race, enabling young people and adults from across the UK to compete in one of sailing’s most prestigious global events.

In 2023, our crew of 17 to 25-year-olds competed in the 50th Rolex Fastnet Race on board Challenger 4. They tackled one of the most challenging first 24 hours of racing in recent Fastnet history and completed the 700nm course in 05d 02:18:15. It was an epic journey for all on board and a first for Tall Ships Youth Trust.

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TSYT Youth Crew for Rolex Fastnet 2023 – the 50th Edition

Building on this achievement, we are now developing an exciting new Ocean Racing Pathway for young people, to align with our three-voyage journey of Exploration, Empowerment and Leadership. This pathway will encompass a developmental programme of competitive sailing activities and race events within each stage.

Up to 40 young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, who have completed our Empowerment or Leadership voyages, can join the ocean racing programme. These young people will undergo a series of training opportunities, to build their offshore racing skills, teamwork, decision making and the positive mindset needed to thrive in an ultimate challenging environment.

A final selection process will identify those with the best profile to join the racing teams who will go on to compete in the Rolex Fastnet 2025.

Support our Ocean Racing and Fastnet 2025 Project​

Rolex Fastnet race 2025

The RORC Rolex Fastnet Race is known as one of the most demanding offshore races in the world, held in British waters.

To expand our reach across the UK, engage with local communities, and help young people access voyaging, race training and competition, we will enter two 72ft Challenger yachts into the Rolex Fastnet race 2025.

The racing teams will compete with a mixture of youth and adult crews on board.

Rolex Fastnet Race – Adult participation

We are looking for adults to take part in the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race, and commit to sponsoring or fundraising for a young person as part of their entry.

Each race team will have a combination of young people and adults, this mixed age range will enable the crew to have shared experiences, learn from each other, and mentor teammates.

If you think you have what it takes to be part of our adult crew in the next Rolex Fastnet Race, are committed to giving a young person the same life-changing opportunity, then please complete this form to receive more information, and details on the financial commitment.

COMPLETE OUR INTEREST FORM NOW

Challenger 3 crew (First Class Sailing) Rolex Fastnet Race

Ocean Racing Pathway into Fastnet 2025

fastnet youth crew

Young People Participation

Over 40 passionate young people have expressed interest in continuing their journey with us through our ocean racing pathway. These aspiring racers have the incredible opportunity to participate in at least two of four transformative training weekends:

  • 18 – 20 October 2024
  • 15 – 17 November 2024
  • 6 – 8 December 2024
  • 10 – 12 January 2025

Their dedication will culminate in a final selection process to determine who will join our racing teams for the Rolex Fastnet 2025, giving them the chance to compete in one of the world’s most challenging ocean racing events—an opportunity many would not have otherwise.

This pathway can open doors to exciting careers in the maritime industry and the growing blue economy. But they need your help! Your support will directly fund their training and resources.

Support Our Ocean Racing and Fastnet 2025 Project

Hear from our 2023 Fastnet young people

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The experience has given me the courage to take on more unfamiliar challenges and activities. I am more comfortable and confident meeting and working with people I haven't met before. I have a stronger idea of what I am capable of and more aware of my strengths. This is because of the number of things I have achieved with TSYT and always receiving positive encouragement from TSYT crew.

Tess, TSYT Fastnet 2023 Youth Crew

For me among other high points, there was a huge sense of satisfaction that as a young, amateur crew who have never sailed together, never mind raced together, could come together and not only finish a race that some could not, but also give the other challenger boats and dare I say it the faster clipper boats a true run for their money.

James, Fastnet 2023 Young Person