The Centenary Rolex Fastnet Race,with its 441-strong fleet, has been a complete eye-opener for most offshore sailors. It indicated that, for now at least, the performance focus has shifted decisively to France and the Western Mediterranean. Thus, although it was a baptism of fire for the Royal Irish YC two-boat Admiral's Cup team, the fact is that apart from half a dozen outstanding boats in other classes, the Admiral's Cup fleet did very well as a group in the final Fastnet placings.
Thus, although Tom Kneen's JPK 1180 Sunrise IV finished at mid-fleet in AC terms, she was clearly the top-placed Irish boat at 17th overall, and Tom Kneen is our "Sailor of the Month (Offshore) for July 2025.

















































