Huge congratulations to the Met Police Sailing Club who sailed to victory in our Round the Island Fundraising Challenge 2025, in support of Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT).

The crew enjoyed their second win, having first claimed the title in 2023. They battled it out against three formidable teams:

• The Rum Runners – also from the Met Police Sailing Club
• The Worthy King’s – a split crew made up of Worthing Sailing Club and King’s College
• The Wetherby Whalers

On Saturday 15 March 2025, the teams set sail to circumnavigate the Isle of Wight in the fastest time, on board TSYT 72ft Challenger yachts.

It was an early start for all four teams as they tackled tricky tides and shifting winds. Challenger 1 took an early lead, while Challengers 2 and 3 followed an offshore route. But in a dramatic final push, Challenger 4 surged ahead, crossing the finish line first and seizing victory.

Geoff, crew member of Challenger 4, shared their winning moment:

“We went back into Sandown bay before tacking to clear Whitecliff. When Challenger 1 came back from their outer course, they were ahead by half a nautical mile. Their clean bottom allowed them to make some gains, but we were round the fort before them and led to the finish.”

TSYT Skipper Adam Price, who helmed the winning team told us…

“We had another great race. There was sun, light winds, then plenty of wind and a tense race to the line. A fantastic day, raising funds to help get more disadvantaged youths out on the water”.

A Celebration with Purpose

The excitement carried on into Saturday evening, as the teams came together to enjoy a prize-giving dinner at the prestigious Island Sailing Club in Cowes. The highlight of the evening was an inspiring talk from two of TSYT young ambassadors Eli (17) and Beth (17), who shared how their experience with TSYT transformed their confidence and shaped their futures.

Fundraising efforts on the night included an exciting game of Heads and Tails, and TSYT Skipper, Amy Ferrier, who helmed The Worthy King’s crew, auctioned her own unique artwork of Challenger 2, which she hand-made using over 80,000 beads!

Altogether, the four teams raised an incredible £6,156 for Tall Ships Youth Trust which will directly support our vital youth development work.

On behalf of everyone at TSYT, we extend a huge thank you to all four teams, and our superb crew, who made the weekend so enjoyable for all involved. Your dedication to our mission is inspiring and continues to help change more young lives at sea.