Royal Ocean Racing Club has released a webinar offering competitors practical guidance ahead of the 50th anniversary Round Britain and Ireland Race.
The race starts on 9 August, with the webinar held to mark 100 days to go before the offshore challenge begins. Hosted by RORC Vice Commodore Derek Shakespeare, the online discussion brought together experienced sailors with a combined 9 race campaigns.
The panel featured Pip Hare, RORC Commodore Deb Fish, Will Naylor and Sam White. The session focused on preparation, safety and race management for one of offshore sailing’s longest and most demanding events.
Derek Shakespeare, preparing for his first Round Britain and Ireland Race aboard the J/122 Bulldog, urged crews to begin preparations early. He highlighted the importance of Category 1 offshore compliance, communications planning and boat readiness. “The stupid question is the one you didn’t ask,” he told competitors, encouraging sailors to seek advice from the RORC race team.
Pip Hare, line honours winner in the 2022 edition aboard IMOCA 60 Medallia, described the course as one of the world’s finest offshore race tracks. Her advice centred on detailed route planning, including hazards, traffic separation schemes, tides, wind farms and forecast sources. She said thorough preparation reduces the number of critical decisions crews must make while fatigued or under pressure offshore.
Pip Hare’s IMOCA 60 Medallia shows pace offshore ahead of the RORC race. Photo: Paul Wyeth
Deb Fish drew on experience from both fully crewed and double-handed campaigns aboard Sun Fast 3600 Bellino. She advised crews to divide the course into sections and remain alert through the final stages in the Channel and North Sea.
Will Naylor, racing with the British Army Sailing Association aboard Fujitsu British Soldier, focused on resilience and shared responsibility onboard. He encouraged crews to share navigation knowledge across the team and to prepare carefully for food, water, spares, and communications.
Sam White, returning double-handed aboard JPK 1080 Mzungu!, compared offshore sailing preparation with airline briefing procedures and checklist culture. Reflecting on an autopilot failure during the 2022 race, he warned crews not to leave key planning decisions until they are already at sea.
The webinar recording is now available online for competitors, supporters and prospective entrants preparing for the August start. Access the webinar recording below.
