International Student Joins Clipper Race Crew as Round-the-World Sailor

Following in the inspiring wake of alumna Ella Hebron, East Sussex College’s Clipper Race story continues – this time with international student Lucas Radev Roig preparing to take on the full 11-month global sailing challenge as part of Team UNICEF.

Lucas, originally from Spain and currently completing his A-Levels at the Newhaven/Lewes campus, will join the 2025 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race as a circumnavigator – one of a select few crew members completing the entire 40,000-nautical-mile route across six oceans and more than a dozen countries.

Lucas has been studying Biology, Environmental Science, and Marine Science, subjects that have deepened his passion for the ocean and environmental issues. He cites Environmental Science as a standout course: “At the beginning I didn’t give it much regard, but I got really into it – and now it’s something I’d love to carry on studying in the future.”

Lucas’s time at East Sussex College has also been shaped by personal growth. As an international student, he first stayed with a host family before making the move to Coburn House, an independent student residence.

“My first impression was that the staff were amazing – they helped me settle into this new chapter of living alone,” he said. “All my neighbours here have been top tier. It was scary at first being international, but you adapt quickly, and the wellbeing team has been incredibly helpful and supportive.”

Joining Team UNICEF – one of eleven Clipper Race crews – Lucas will train and race alongside a mix of amateur and professional sailors, all working towards a shared mission of adventure, personal challenge, and charitable impact.

And after the race?

“I want to complete my dream list,” he said. “Buy a boat, live in it, and eventually study Zoology in Australia.”

Lucas’s story is a powerful reminder that education goes far beyond the classroom. His journey reflects the College’s commitment to encouraging independence, global thinking, and hands-on experience.

“I’d definitely recommend my courses to other students,” he added. “They really open your eyes to a lot of situations in the world.”

With Ella Hebron leading a crew as the youngest-ever Clipper Race Skipper and Lucas Radev Roig preparing to sail every leg of the race with Team UNICEF, East Sussex College is proudly supporting a new generation of global changemakers at sea.

Inspired by Lucas's journey? Explore A-Levels in Biology, Environmental Science and Marine Science at East Sussex College and discover where your adventure could begin.