Brain injury survivor to return to sailing in support of charity which helped him

Falmouth sailor and brain injury survivor returns to offshore racing in support of brain injury charity, Headway UK © Robin Elsey-Webb

Falmouth sailor and brain injury survivor returns to offshore racing in support of brain injury charity, Headway UK © Robin Elsey-Webb

Falmouth sailor and brain injury survivor returns to offshore racing in support of brain injury charity, Headway UK © Robin Elsey-Webb

British sailor Robin Elsey-Webb is making a powerful return to offshore racing this year with the launch of Kernow Ocean Racing/ BlackDog Collaboration.

After suffering a life-threatening brain injury in 2023, Robin has fought his way back to competitive sailing and will be taking on the 2025 RORC season championship, with the Fastnet Race as the campaign's major focus for this year.

Robin's injuries, the result of a suspected serious assault while abroad, included multiple severe skull fractures, bleeding on the brain, and a broken neck.

Robin's wife, Liz, and friends navigated getting Robin medically evacuated to Miami. Once there he underwent emergency neurosurgery and spent 2 weeks in intensive care and a further 2 weeks as an outpatient being closely monitored. His recovery has been extraordinary—thanks to determination, family support, and a deep drive to return to life at sea.

Having raced offshore since a young age, Robin's sailing career includes solo and crewed achievements across Europe and the Atlantic. A highlight was winning the Bizuth Trophy in the Solitaire du Figaro, awarded to the top rookie that year. He's also claimed line honours in the RORC Transatlantic Race and stood on the podium at events like the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

In 2024, he took his first steps back into professional sailing with the Rowdy Classic team, an experience that was both emotionally and physically significant.

"Sailing with Rowdy has been a huge milestone. It was the first time I felt I was truly back, competing at a high level again—with a team that has supported me every step of the way."

The 2025 campaign is being sailed double-handed alongside experienced offshore racer Stuart Sawyer, who has made the project possible by bringing his Class 40 yacht, Black Dog VI, into the campaign. "Stuart's belief in this project has been incredible. Without him and Black Dog VI, I wouldn't be back racing offshore this season," said Robin.

"This year is all about redeveloping my offshore short-handed skills," he continued. "It's about seeing where I'm at, racing competitively again, and proving to myself that I can still do this."

The goal this year is the class 40 class in the Fastnet Race 2025 one of the 600 mile classics and one of the biggest offshore races in the international calendar.

Stuart Sawyer, Robin's friend, co-sailor and owner of the Class 40 boat they'll use to undertake the challenge - Black Dog VI - said: "I've known Robin a long time and we raced together a few times, I was always struck by Robins calm and professional approach.

"After hearing about Robin's injuries and his recovery, we met up and he shared how he wanted to make a difference to fellow brain injury survivors around the world.

"When we explored our racing ambitions, we also found we were aligned in our goals and objectives. It is an inspiring story of overcoming challenges and constantly looking ahead, so I was keen to help and to see where the journey could go next."

A Message of Hope After Brain Injury

Robin is using his return to racing to share a message with others affected by brain injury:

"Life is different now, but that doesn't mean it's over. I want people to know that there is life after brain injury. I am acutely aware of how fortunate I am to still be able to do what I love and hopefully inspire other survivors to push for their goals."

Supporting Headway UK

As part of this campaign, Kernow Ocean Racing is proud to support Headway UK, the brain injury charity that provides life-changing services to survivors and their families. From rehabilitation to emotional support, Headway's work is vital—and something Robin only discovered partway through his recovery.

"We didn't know about Headway when I was first injured. We were completely in the dark, trying to manage everything ourselves. It was only later that we found them and realised how much they could have helped. I want others to know they're out there."

To support their work, the team has launched a JustGiving page, where the public can contribute to ongoing fundraising efforts throughout the 2025 season.

Helen Craig, Fundraising Manager at Headway - the brain injury association - said: "We are so inspired by Robin's unwavering determination to return to the highest level of ocean sailing. Taking on this immense physical and mental challenge reflects the inner resilience, strength, and courage of brain injury survivors and the families we support every day.

"Robin's dedication to raising awareness for Headway's vital services is not only inspiring others, but also securing essential funds needed to support our services.

"We are excited to follow Robin's progress as he prepares for the 600 mile classic Fastnet Race 2025. If Robin's story inspires you too, please consider supporting his fundraising efforts."

Thank You to Our Early Supporters

The campaign is made possible thanks to early support from partners Seaware, Falmouth Haven and Port Pendennis Marina, whose belief in the project from the start has helped get Kernow Ocean Racing to the start line.

To follow the campaign visit: www.facebook.com/robinkernowoceanracing

To donate see: www.justgiving.com/page/robinelseywebbfastnet2025