The Old Pangbournian Yacht Club (OPYC) took to the challenging waters of the Solent on 10–11 October for the annual Arrow Trophy Regatta, competing against alumni crews from independent schools in a weekend of tactical racing, classic British autumn weather and excellent camaraderie.

Representing Pangbourne College in the fiercely competitive Fairview fleet, the OPYC crew put in a strong performance, finishing eighth overall out of 12 boats in a competition that tested their seamanship, teamwork and resilience.

The team’s entry was supported by a grant from the Pangbournian Community Advisory Board (PCAB), whose annual grants scheme supports OPYC and other community groups, helping to bring Pangbournians together and foster a community of Pangbournians for life.

Notably, the crew brought together nine Old Pangbournians spanning several generations, from those who left in the 1970s to more recent leavers – a wonderful example of the lifelong connections that unite the Pangbournian community.

Friday: Practice, culture and Cowes hospitality

The crew assembled on Friday morning at the Hamble aboard Vis a Vis for warm-up drills and preparations ahead of the weekend’s racing. A lively breeze provided excellent conditions for honing their seamanship before the team headed across to Cowes.

With a free afternoon on arrival, crew members took the opportunity to explore the local area. Some visited Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s former seaside residence, while others enjoyed a local art exhibition.

As evening fell, the team gathered over a homemade stew prepared by Patrick Roberts and his wife, Hetty, followed by chocolate roulade, cheese and port – generous hospitality and excellent company ahead of the competitive racing to come.

Saturday: Blue skies, gusty winds and fleet racing

Saturday delivered prime sailing conditions, with crisp blue skies and tricky, gusty winds. The race committee delivered four fast-paced fleet races, with the OPYC crew battling hard against a formidable Fairview fleet.

Although the team held their own across the line, maintaining pace on the upwind legs proved challenging. Following a protest in the fourth and final race, the crew finished the day in ninth position on the leaderboard.

In true Pangbournian fashion, the team traded oilskins for blazers that evening, joining crews from across the independent school circuit for the prestigious Arrow Trophy Dinner at the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) in Cowes. It was an opportunity to celebrate the competition and enjoy the camaraderie that makes the regatta such a memorable annual fixture.

Sunday: Calmer waters and a memorable recovery drill

Sunday’s planned match racing and fleet finals were thwarted by a complete lack of wind, resulting in the cancellation of the day’s racing. Making the most of the tranquil conditions, the crew motored over to Beaulieu for a quick stop and a pint at Buckler’s Hard before a relaxed voyage back to the Hamble.

There was still time for one final seamanship lesson. Never one to miss a practical training opportunity, Larry Howard brought the weekend to a memorable close by leaping into the Solent in his boxers for a spontaneous – and remarkably swift – man-overboard recovery drill!

The OPYC’s final position of eighth overall rounded off a rewarding weekend of sailing, friendship and Pangbournian spirit.

Meet the crew

The nine-strong crew represented multiple generations of Old Pangbournians:

• Rohan Batra (2006–11)
• Tom Bendall (1994–97)
• Miles Gordon-Smith (1984–88)
• Larry Howard (2005–11)
• Adam Kelvie (2004–09)
• James Minter (1983–88)
• Ed Nash (2015–20)
• Paul Tarantino (1982–86)
• Patrick Roberts (1971–75)

Congratulations to the whole team for representing Pangbourne at the Arrow Trophy and demonstrating the enduring friendships and community spirit that continue long after leaving the College.

2027 PCAB grant applications now open

Following the success of supported initiatives such as the OPYC’s regatta entry, the Pangbournian Community Advisory Board Grants Committee invites Pangbournian community groups, clubs, societies and heritage initiatives to apply for grant funding for 2027.

Applications that align with Pangbourne College’s ethos, core values and strategic priorities, and support its mission to foster a community of Pangbournians for life, will be looked upon most favourably.

Application deadline: 5 February 2027

How to Apply: Proposals can be submitted via the online application form here.