A Welsh racer has clinched the title of world champion with Team Brady, a team co-owned by American football legend Tom Brady. Sam Coleman, hailing from Pembrokeshire, piloted Team Brady’s electric powerboat to victory in the E1 World Championship, the world’s first all-electric raceboat series.

The inaugural E1 World Championship saw nine teams compete across five iconic global locations, including Jeddah, Venice, and Monaco. Each team, led by high-profile owners such as tennis star Rafael Nadal, actor Will Smith, and football great Didier Drogba, raced to showcase the future of electric mobility on water.

Coleman, alongside Finnish co-pilot Emma Kimiläinen, displayed remarkable skill in piloting the RaceBird, an innovative hydrofoiling electric powerboat designed for speed and efficiency. Over the season, Team Brady achieved three wins, ultimately securing an 11-point lead over their nearest competitor and claiming the championship title.

Reflecting on the victory, Coleman expressed his excitement and pride: “To be crowned the inaugural E1 Series World Champions is such a surreal feeling and something I’m unbelievably proud of. I must admit I was feeling quietly confident of securing the championship win—it’s hard not to be confident with Emma as my teammate and the backing of the dream team assembled by Joe and Ben. It’s not been the work of a minute; we’ve all worked hard, adapted quickly, and overcome challenges to put the team in the position to win the Championship.”

Brady, a former NFL star and co-owner of Team Brady, shared his enthusiasm following the win. “It feels amazing to win the first E1 World Championship,” he said. “I’m proud of the team and what we’ve accomplished. Competition is exciting for us, and life is about making memories and relationships, and I think what we’ve established in terms of our teamwork has been one of the most gratifying parts.”

The E1 World Championship forms part of the Electric 360 initiative, launched by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) earlier this year. This pioneering project unites E1, Formula E, and Extreme E under one mission: to advance electric mobility, foster innovation, and lead carbon reduction efforts within motorsport.

Rodi Basso, co-founder and CEO of E1, congratulated Team Brady on their historic achievement, saying, “We congratulate Tom and his team on their momentous win as the first-ever Champions on the Water following a season of tough competition and thrilling racing. As Team Brady write their name into the history books, we look ahead to a supercharged season two, as we take the innovative Championship to new cities around the world and continue to redefine racing on water.”

With the championship secured, preparations for season two are already underway, with new teams, owners, and host cities anticipated to be announced soon.

SUNSHINE and a gentle breeze welcomed sailors to Tenby Sailing Club for the first dinghy race on Sunday (Oct 27), with five boats taking to the water.

Ben Roberts, navigating his Laser, secured an early lead and clinched first place. Peter Rose and Sharon Thompson, competing in a Scorpion, followed closely, securing second, while Julian Cumpsty and Howard Yeates took third in a Redwing. Igor Otahal finished fourth, sailing an ILCA 6.

In the day’s second race, Roberts withdrew to assist Lilly, who had capsized twice, allowing Rose and Thompson to capture the win. Otahal moved up to second, and Cumpsty and Yeates placed third once more.

The club expressed thanks to Peter Randles, who served as race officer and provided essential safety support.

Quiz night and upcoming events

The club’s winter season kicked off with its first quiz night on Saturday evening, where nine teams competed. “Off Our Trolley” claimed victory, with “Twp” and “Tenby Crabs” finishing close behind. The next quiz night is scheduled for November 30.

Tenby Sailing Club will also hold its annual Dinner Dance on November 22 at the Giltar Hotel, followed by the AGM the next day. Nominations for officers and committee members are open, and more details can be found on the club’s website.

ST. ISHMAELS hosted Division Two challengers Solva in an eagerly anticipated Senior Cup fixture this weekend, and with Division One competition heating up, the match promised excitement. Despite a difficult start to their league season, St. Ishmaels—once pegged for relegation—have recently proven their mettle, showing remarkable form that now sets them apart as a rising force in Division One. Solva, aware of the formidable task ahead, arrived determined to topple the in-form hosts.

With the Tish grounds in immaculate condition, the teams took to the field in a clash that highlighted St. Ishmaels’ dynamic blend of youthful energy and seasoned composure. Right from the start, Solva struggled to counter Tish’s relentless pace, orchestrated by the ever-tenacious Ieuan Hawkins and anchored by defensive leader Brennan Devonald. By halftime, St. Ishmaels had firmly asserted control, with Nathan Thomas, Hawkins, and Finley Armstrong each netting a goal to secure a commanding 3-0 lead.

Refusing to surrender, Solva launched a spirited second-half push in search of a comeback. However, Tish’s defensive unit, led by captain Devonald and bolstered by Hawkins’ relentless energy, stifled any Solva advances. An unfortunate deflection by Devonald gifted Solva a consolation goal in the 80th minute, but he redeemed himself moments later with a towering header, sealing the match at 4-1 to the delight of the home crowd.

Despite the loss, Solva’s resilience shone through, with their standout player, Josh Bland, battling fiercely against Devonald’s commanding defense. St. Ishmaels, meanwhile, can look to this win as another positive step in a season full of promise.

Commendations are due to both teams for the spirit of the match; the referee left his cards unused, a testament to the fair play displayed. Local supporters and club officials deserve praise for their efforts in fostering such thriving village clubs, bringing renewed energy to teams like Tish and Solva.

Best of luck to St. Ishmaels in the next round, and here’s to a promising season for Solva!