Expert guide to the Round the Island Race, with Graham Sunderland

Freddie Carr talks to his old friend Graham Sunderland, author of Winning Tides, about what it takes to navigate the Solent and a lap of the isle of Wight ahead of the 2026 Round the Island Race.

Graham talks Freddie around the lap, discussing how the tides are as vital to speed as wind, and gives his tips on the best navigational choices open to the near-800 boats negotiating the 50 nautical miles of the 95-year-old race.

Freddie describes Graham as “a man who has been around the island more than he’s had hot dinners”, and quizzes him for all of his top tips for a race that remains close to our man’s heart.

Freddie also asks Graham about some of the projects he’s involved in around Cowes. For match racing, go to @cowes_match_racing. Before the big race on Saturday, he’s also doing a lap of the island to guide some intrepid swimmers who are taking on a huge challenge for a good cause. Back them at @cureparkinsons

Read more from Freddie on his love for the Round the Island Race here.