On Brand and On Course: Flamingo Rock & John Dory – Round the Island Race 2025

When the crew of John Dory approached us ahead of the 2025 Round the Island Race, they had a clear goal: look smart, feel cohesive, and represent their historic boat with pride. Their brief was simple but heartfelt they wanted a stylish crew uniform that paid tribute to the boat's heritage while standing up to the demands of a long day on the water.

And we were only too happy to help.

When Flamingo Rock’s owner, Steve a life long fan of Howards’ Way  found out the crew were based at the Elephant Boatyard, he just had to get involved. The opportunity to support a classic yacht moored in such an iconic location was simply too good to miss.

Who Is John Dory?

John Dory is a 45-foot Bermudan sloop, built in 1938, and now lovingly cared for at the Elephant Boatyard in Bursledon a historic hub of traditional boatbuilding. This boat isn't just another classic yacht; she’s a living, breathing part of British sailing history.

Her mooring at the Elephant Boatyard also ties her to something close to many sailors’ hearts: the TV series Howards’ Way. Much of the show’s drama unfolded around the boatyard, putting the Hamble River on screen and forever linking it to the glamour and grit of sailing culture in the UK. It’s a connection that still inspires pride in those who sail from there today including the John Dory team.

What Flamingo Rock Delivered

The crew needed something that would reflect their passion, history, and teamwork so we set to work designing a bespoke crew polo shirt that was smart, breathable, and carried just the right nods to their boat and identity. Together, we refined colours, logo placement, and embroidery to make sure the final result looked polished on deck, at the marina, and even in the pub after the race.

The collaboration didn’t stop there the crew loved the design so much, they were inspired to go a step further with matching caps, tying their race day look together from head to helm.

Although our main products are officially licensed MOD Regimental polo shirts, we love helping all communities look their best whether they’re on parade or on the water. This is what Flamingo Rock does best: helping grassroots crews and small communities look the part, with no minimum orders, full design support, and the benefit of our hands-on experience. You focus on the race; we’ll handle the branding.

And the Race? A Finish to Be Proud Of

On race day, John Dory took to the Solent with classic elegance and crew unity to match. After a tough but rewarding 50 nautical miles around the Isle of Wight, the team crossed the line in 08:50:31 and finished 4th in their class  a huge achievement, especially for a yacht that’s seen generations of sailing.

Congratulations to the whole crew we were proud to be part of your story.

Need help bringing your club, crew, or team together with a custom uniform? Whether it’s for one regatta or an entire season, Flamingo Rock is here to support local legends like John Dory with quality kit and personal service. No minimums. No fuss. Just great gear.