Itchenor Sailors Deliver Stellar Performance to Win U17 Eric Twiname Trophy

Published 13:12 on 20 Oct 2026

Felix Gladman (helm), Alice Pattison (crew), Arthur Pattison (helm) and Maya Smallwood (crew), representing Seaford College, outmanoeuvred 22 rival teams at the weekend to claim the national title in a competition that attracts teams from across the UK. The two-day event took place at Farmoor Reservoir.

Their victory was all the more impressive given their young age, as they competed against older and often physically bigger sailors.

Day one presented challenges, with gusty, shifty conditions and winds gusting up to 25 knots. Undeterred, the Seaford team demonstrated exceptional boat handling and tactical awareness, winning every race.

Day two brought a complete change, with barely a breath of wind. Once again, the two ISC helms proved their tactical prowess in outflanking their opponents in the light airs and maintaining impressive boat speed. They dropped just one race throughout the day.

Finishing top of the league gave Seaford the advantage of choosing their semi-final opponents. In a bold decision, they opted to race against Sevenoaks, a team with form who benefit from professional coaching and multiple training sessions each week. Seaford remained composed under pressure, executing a decisive 2–0 victory to secure their place in the final.

There, they faced Rutland Racers. Displaying remarkable maturity and teamwork, the Seaford sailors combined excellent pre-start tactics with skilful manoeuvres throughout the races to secure another convincing 2–0 win and lift the overall trophy.

ISC member and Seaford College coach Douglas Pattison praised the team's performance, commending the sailors for their gutsy, mature approach to racing and their ability to perform under pressure. The team was also praised by the race committee for their polite and sportsmanlike behaviour on and off the water! “ Seaford College Sailing has come a long way in the last three years. Being able to base ourselves at Itchenor Sailing Club has given us a fantastic opportunity to continue fulfilling the potential of our sailors”.

This really is a fantastic achievement for the young ISC sailors and their coach. 

Last updated 13:12 on 20 October 2026