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On a wet Saturday in May, Kai, Jessye, Tyler, Christopher-Joel and Jaydon (Ys 10 and 11) set off from Cowes at 5.30am to circumnavigate the Isle of Wight in Riot, the boat they have refurbished themselves. They were aiming to set a record for the fastest rounding on rating. (All race boats have an IRC rating – a handicap – by which their time is multiplied to make it fair.)

Alas, conditions meant that there was a danger of safety being compromised so the crew had to retire. But our five hardy sailors never say die, so just three days later it was time to go for the record again.

Was it a success this time? A resounding YES!

‘Other teams had tried and had to retire but our boys didn’t give up. It’s a major achievement for them for a number of reasons. First, they sailed a boat unassisted that they have restored and perfected themselves over the last two years. Second, the range of conditions was enormous – calm and sunny, windy with rain, no wind at all. 10 hours sailing without a break is a real challenge and they showed great focus and staying power. They have set the benchmark for all who follow.’ Mr Holt

GCA’s Riot sailing crew were the very first to register a time for the IoW course on the IRC Records site.