Royal Hospital School pupil becomes Under 19 Youth ILCA National Champion

Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Ipswich, is celebrating its recent success of Christopher Marsh, a Year 12 international boarder and sailing scholar at RHS, who has become the new Under 19 Youth ILCA National Champion.

Held in Weymouth Bay, Christopher faced numerous challenges during the competition. After a series of intense races, the final race, which carried double points, proved to be the deciding factor. Christopher's determination and skill led him to claim victory.

Christopher joined RHS at the beginning of Year 12, He always wanted to pursue a sixth form education in England, having grown up in Thailand with his family. He was inspired by a friend who had previously been to RHS, to come and have a look round the school. Christopher credits discipline, repetition and a strict routine as the key to his achievement. He diligently trains in the school gym, ensuring his nutrition aligns with his rigorous regimen.

Christopher commented on the win by saying: "I knew I had to win, and I believed in my abilities; losing was not an option. I was blown away with the sailing provision and boarding lifestyle at RHS, and knew it was a place where I could combine my academics alongside my commitment to race training.”

Mr Sibson, Director of Sailing at RHS, also commented: “Since his arrival, Christopher has displayed immense commitment not only to his studies but to his training, benefitting from the support and resources provided by the school.”

Continuing his journey, Christopher will be participating in the U21 and U19 World Sailing Championship in Poland, commencing on 1^st July.

Looking ahead, Christopher aspires to attend university in the UK alongside sailing in England, with dreams of competing in the Paris Olympics. His potential inclusion in next year's Olympics will depend on his performance at the ILCA African Championships. Christopher, with his dual nationality (His mother is Thai and father is half British/African) is fortunate to have many opportunities to represent either Thailand, South Africa or the UK.