When we first teamed up with Gaeil Force for the F18 World Championships in the Netherlands, our motivation was simple. We wanted to sponsor them with sailing kit that was functional, comfortable, and made sustainably. Through our previous collaborations with elite sporting teams, such as JAX Sailing, we understood the delicate balance that needed to be struck between aesthetics and premium performance.
“We were delighted to have OceanR backing us up for the event, the bibs served us very well and quite a few teams came up to us asking where we got them, and we of course recommended you!” — Sam Rigley and Séan Lemonier of Gaeil Force.
Our pinnies (or bibs) didn’t just help Gaeil Force perform while proudly representing their country, the gear was a talking point in Noordwijk Sea Sports Club. Several teams approached the Gaeil Force sailors to ask who provided their pinnies, and they were proud to point back to a local Irish business.
Read our blog announcing our Gaeil Force sponsorship, here.
Reflecting on F18 World Championships 2025
The F18 Worlds brought together some of the best sailors from around the globe, and Gaeil Force showed up ready to compete. Through challenging conditions and intense racing, their teamwork and determination was evident each day, and our sustainably-made bibs were right there with them, holding up to the challenging, choppy waters.
The team achieved an incredible second place finish in the silver fleet, coming 50th in the Championship overall.
Representing Ireland as its first ever F18 Youth Team didn’t deter Gaeil Force — in fact, they are actively planning to enter future competitions.
Future-Planning
Gaeil Force’s momentum didn’t stop in the Netherlands. Two major goals are now in their sights:
- The 2026 F18 World Championships in Australia.
- The European Championships in Italy.
Why This Sponsorship Matters for OCEANR
For us, this wasn’t just about providing gear, it was about being part of a local story. When Gaeil Force wears their OCEANR gear, they are representing more than a brand. They are showcasing sustainable innovation in the most demanding environments, proving that peak performance and marine responsibility can go hand in hand.
What’s Next?
The OCEANR team will be following Gaeil Force closely as their plans take shape, whether it’s under the Australian sun or the Italian breeze. Either way, we are proud to keep them looking sharp, feeling comfortable, and sailing with a smaller environmental footprint.
If you’d like to support Gaeil Force on their journey to the next big championship, be sure to follow their official team Instagram page.