An Ipswich student who came to the UK from Thailand to pursue his dream, made history as his determination and skills led him to becoming the national youth sailing champion. 

Christopher Marsh from Royal Hospital School in Holbrook, south of the town, has recently been named the under-19 Youth ILCA National Champion. 

The 17-year-old faced numerous challenges during the competition.

Ipswich Star: Christopher Marsh from RHS became the sailing champion, RHSChristopher Marsh from RHS became the sailing champion, RHS (Image: RHS)

Christopher joined RHS at the beginning of Year 12, as he had always wanted to pursue a sixth-form education in England, having grown up in Thailand with his family.  

He said: "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." 

The teenager was inspired by a friend who had previously been to RHS, to come and have a look around 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. 

Mr Sibson, director of sailing at RHS, added: "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."  Ipswich Star: Christopher Marsh from RHS became the sailing champion, RHSChristopher Marsh from RHS became the sailing champion, RHS (Image: RHS)

Continuing his journey, Christopher will be participating in the under-21 and under-19 World Sailing Championship in Poland, commencing on July 1. 

Looking ahead, Christopher aspires to attend university in the UK alongside sailing in England, with dreams of competing in the Paris Olympics in 2024.

His potential inclusion in next year's Olympics will depend on his performance at the ILCA African Championships. 

Christopher, with his dual nationality, as his mother is Thai and father is British, is fortunate to have many opportunities to represent either Thailand, South Africa or the UK.