Join Griffin26 – Applications Now Open!
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We are excited to announce the launch of Griffin26, the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s flagship youth offshore pathway for 2026. This is your opportunity to race offshore, build skills, and be part of a truly international programme at the heart of the RORC.
In 2025, we received hundreds of applications and welcomed 85 sailors from around the world, with a perfect 50/50 mix of boys and girls. For 2026, our ambition is even greater — we are targeting 100 sailors to join Griffin26.
A Global Project
Griffin26 brings together sailors from across the globe. In 2025, the team represented England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, USA, Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, Finland, Poland, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, and India.
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Programme Highlights
· Applications Open: September 11–21 (via online form after the Griffin webinar).
· Selection Invitations: Sent September 26.
· Selection Weekend: October 17–19 at the RORC Cowes Clubhouse.
Racing Pathways
· Griffin Sun Fast 3600 – Four Squads
o Squads 1 & 2: New sailors, coached through shorter races (JOG weekends, Myth of Malham, Cowes–Dinard–St Malo).
o Squads 3 & 4: Experienced Griffins, taking on longer challenges (Round Ireland, Round Britain & Ireland).
International Campaigns (subject to sponsorship)
· Rolex Middle Sea Race – October 2026
· RORC Transatlantic Race – January 2027
Other International Events
· Nastro Rosa (Italy): 5 mixed teams
· Tour Voile (France): 1 Griffin team
What to Do Next?
· Join the Griffin26 WhatsApp group for updates: Join Here
· Attend the Griffin26 Q&A Webinar to hear more and put your questions to our expert panel.
o When: 11 September, 18:00 (London)
o Topic: Griffin26 Pathway with Q&A
o Register here: Zoom Link
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details for joining.
We look forward to welcoming you into Griffin26 and seeing you on the start line.
Fair Winds,
Jim Driver
Griffin Chair
