Griffin Offshore Pathway

History of Griffin

Over the years, through the generosity of Royal Ocean Racing Club members, the Griffin Fund has assisted in providing race boats and experienced sailors to improve young sailors' understanding of offshore racing.

The RORC has appointed a total of 12 Honorary Griffin Secretaries. The first Honorary Secretary was Brigadier John Bush in 1945, when the training boat Griffin was presented to the RORC by H.E West. In 1951, Owen Aisher's Fastnet winner Yeoman was presented to the Club and renamed Griffin II, which went on to represent Britain in several Admiral's Cups and was on the winning team in 1959. In the infamous 1979 Fastnet, Griffin skippered by Neal Graham, with Stuart Quarrie as navigator, sank in atrocious conditions, but all the crew were safely picked up from their liferaft by the heroic actions of Alain Catherineau's French yacht, Lorelei. Seven boats called Griffin have raced with the RORC since 1945, and the Griffin Fund has always been active to this day.

Janet Grosvenor was Honorary Griffin Secretary from 1989 until 2007 (right of picture). Nicholson 33, Golden Guinea - renamed Griffin V, skippered by Rod Carr.

Janet started at the RORC in 1969 as a receptionist and ended up as RORC Racing Manager. "One of my first jobs in the early 70s was running a sweepstake on the Grand National to raise money for the Griffin Fund - I doubt it would be approved of today!" commented Janet Grosvenor. Every RORC race I would put together a skipper and crew so Griffin could race, and a lot of provisional RORC members felt it was a way to qualify for full membership.

Cultivating RORC's Next Generation of Offshore Sailors

Today, the Royal Ocean Racing Club's Griffin Offshore Pathway is designed to introduce sailors aged 18-30 to the realm of offshore sailing. This program offers a structured development framework, enabling over one hundred participants to gain proficiency through hands-on experience.

The Griffin Offshore Pathway exemplifies RORC's commitment to nurturing the next generation of offshore sailors. By providing a rounded training environment, encompassing technical skills, personal development, and inspirational mentorship. The program equips young sailors with the tools needed for success in the demanding world of offshore racing.

As the seasons unfold, the experiences and lessons garnered from these training sessions will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation. The synergy between the sailors, coaches, and supporters paints a promising picture for the future of the Griffin Squads, as they prepare to embark on competitive challenges with confidence and unity.

For more information on the Griffin Project and opportunities to support, please email: Griffin@rorc.org