Blackwater Sailing Club cadet captains UK team at International Optimist Team Racing Championships

UK team (L-R) Callum Marshall, Tom Keegan, Isla Hutchinson at the International Optimist Team Racing Championships © YCM

The Blackwater Sailing Club is excited to announce that cadet Callum Marshall kicked off 2026 in style as he was captain of the UK team at the Monaco International Optimist Team Racing Championships held from 14-18 January.

One of the most prestigious events in international youth sailing organised by the Yacht Club of Monaco, this 14th Edition brought together the world's elite young sailors and has become a pivotal event in the development of tomorrow's champions. Sailors go on to compete at the highest level, while others treasure the experience as an important milestone. All leave with added-value life skills: a strong sense of teamwork, respect for the game and the ability to make quick decisions as a group.

The regatta welcomed 15 teams of four sailors under the age of 14 and from 12 countries. Firstly, they took part in the International Clinic led by Chris Atkins, a world-renowned British figure in team racing who taught them how to turn technique into strategy and that individual skill alone is not enough, it is team spirit, strategic vision and the ability to handle pressure that is essential.

UK team (L-R) Jacques Kent, Callum Marshall, Isla Hutchinson, Tom Keegan, Dan Burns at the International Optimist Team Racing Championships - photo © YCM

The team-race format inspired by the America's Cup then followed. The racing, over three days featured four boats against four with short intense races where decisions had to be made quickly and collectively. After a challenging week on the Monaco racecourse with variable wind conditions, the Italians emerged as the winners after a hard-fought high-level duel with the Danes. The UK team who had won all three races on the last day finished tied 5th on race wins with the USA and taking an impressive 6th overall on points.

Sheena Berney, the Blackwater Sailing Club's commodore exclaimed: "We're so proud of Callum, not only for qualifying for the event having won the 2025 Optimist Nationals but to then be appointed captain of the UK team - what a fantastic achievement at this unique event and a training ground for life - many congratulations to them all!"

Helping develop the champions of the future, the Blackwater Sailing Club is an RYA Affiliated Club and its Sailing School is a recognised training establishment for members covering dinghy sailing, powerboat tuition and first aid training.

For further information about visiting and joining the Club, contact membership secretary Or visit www.blackwatersailingclub.org.uk

International Optimist Team Racing Championships in Monaco - photo © YCM