The RORC Griffin Offshore Pathway continues its outstanding run of success, with the Griffin youth team winning the 2025 Solent Super Series in commanding style. Skippered by 18-year-old Albert Barber, the young squad delivered a composed, confident performance across four weekends and twelve intensely competitive races to secure the overall championship title with a race to spare.
Racing their Sun Fast 3600 Griffin in challenging winter conditions, the team showed impressive seamanship and control, taking wins in all three races of the final round and demonstrating the depth of their development over the season. Their worst result across the entire series was a fourth — a remarkable achievement for a youth squad in a highly experienced fleet.
Barber praised the programme for the opportunities it has created: “The Griffin Project has offered our young team an incredible opportunity for growth and development. Getting to know the boat has been hugely rewarding, and every step has been a learning experience for us.” He highlighted the final weekend — with 20–27 knots of breeze and long, tactical courses — as a standout moment for the crew. “To come away with the series win is a big achievement and a great way to finish our first season with the boat.”
The RORC Griffin Offshore Pathway continues to prove its ability to prepare young sailors for real offshore racing, placing them in demanding environments where teamwork, decision-making and resilience are tested at a high level. The Griffin crew — Albert Barber, Nuala Sellwood, Abby Hire, Will Jarman, Thomas Woodall and Rachel Palmer — have shown maturity beyond their years, setting a strong foundation for future offshore campaigns.
The Club extends its thanks to Jim Driver for his continued support of the Griffin programme, and to the organisers and competitors of the Solent Super Series for providing such a competitive and rewarding arena for youth development.
This victory marks an exciting milestone for the RORC Griffin Pathway — and with a full 2026 programme ahead, the next generation of offshore sailors is already building momentum.
To get involved with the RORC Griffin Pathway as a sailor or supporter visit the dedicated Griffin Pathway Information page. Click here
Image: RORC Griffin © Solent Super Series