Royal Hospital School Achieves Prestigious British Sailing Pathway Club Status

Royal Hospital School's Sailing Academy is a world leading training establishment based at Alton Water reservoir © Tom Soper Photography

The Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Suffolk, is pleased to announce its recent recognition as a British Sailing Pathway Club, a testament to its commitment to supporting young sailors and their racing endeavours.

Created by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), the British Youth and Junior Sailing Pathway has long been a foundation for success for aspiring sailors. The Pathway Club programme underpins the Pathway's "Racing for Life" initiative, aiming to make racing fun, develop strong sailing fundamentals, and foster a lifelong love of the sport.

RHS' Sailing Academy is a world leading training establishment based at Alton Water reservoir, located a few minutes from the main campus, with a fleet of RS Tera, Topper, Laser, Firefly, RS Feva, RS200, 29er racing dinghies and more. All pupils joining in Year 7 try sailing in RHS' learn to sail week and more experienced sailors may choose sailing as their Games option.

The RYA is a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and developing clubs across the UK to become centres of excellence for junior racing, offering affordable, high-quality sailing and coaching close to home for junior racers.

By becoming a British Sailing Pathway Club, RHS joins a network committed to creating fun and accessible racing communities where young sailors can develop fundamental skills and feel part of a team.

Hannah Wilcox, RYA Pathway Club Manager, commented: "We are thrilled to welcome the Royal Hospital School into the Pathway Club network. Their commitment to fostering young talent and promoting accessible, high-quality racing and race training aligns perfectly with the goals of the programme. We look forward to supporting their efforts to inspire the next generation of sailors."

Nick Scott, Director of Racing at the RYA, added: "The British Sailing Pathway Club programme is a vital initiative in ensuring young sailors across the UK have access to high-quality training and racing opportunities. Clubs like the Royal Hospital School play a crucial role in nurturing the future of our sport. Their dedication to providing a structured, fun and inspiring environment for junior racers will set up the next generation of sailing superstars as well as those who love the sport for life."

Ed Sibson, Director of Sailing at the Royal Hospital School, added: "Being recognised as a British Sailing Pathway Club affirms the dedication of our sailors, the strength of our coaching, and our shared commitment to nurturing the champions of tomorrow. This recognition fuels our ambition to provide even greater opportunities, inspire the next generation, and raise the bar for sailing excellence at every level. "

As a British Sailing Pathway Club, the Royal Hospital School will continue to enhance its training programmes, collaborate closely with the RYA, and support young sailors in their journey towards higher levels of competition. The club is excited about the opportunities this status brings and is committed to developing an active junior community that fosters a lifelong love of sailing.

Royal Hospital School's Sailing Academy is a world leading training establishment based at Alton Water reservoir - photo © Tom Soper Photography