Sailing

What does the sport involve?

There are events at the Paralympics for 3 types of keelboat - single 2.4mR, 3 person Sonar and, included for the first time in Beijing 2008, the 2 handed SKUD 18. The course is marked out by buoys. All races take place according to international rules and when boats commit infringements, for example impeding another boat,  then they have to make a penalty turn before continuing the race.

There are a series of races in each event, with each country allowed to enter one boat per event and points are awarded according to placings in each race. Boats with the highest points win the event.

Who can compete?

Open to : All disability categories can compete with crew classified according to their ability to carry out tasks specific to sailing. All sailors are given individual classification points with a maximum number of points allowed for each boat.

Where do I start if I want to try this sport?

The national body responsible for organisation of this sport is:

Royal Yachting Association: RYA House, Ensign Way, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire SO31 4YA

Tel: 0845 345 04100

Useful sites: 
www.rya.org.uk

www.rya.org.uk/sailability  - this can also be accessed via the rya home page. The RYA sailability programme has the aim of bringing boating to people with disabilities. Information about sailing with a disability and the ‘Where can I Sail? Section helps locate a sailing facility which meets your requirements. Taster sessions are also available for those who would like to try sailing and see whether it’s the sport for them.

see also: The Jubilee Sailing Trust www.jst.org.uk

Did you know?

Sailing was first included in the Paralympics in Sydney 2000.

With over 11,000 miles of coastline around Britain, not to mention the rivers and lakes, this relatively small country of ours is awash with water – so no excuses now - this is a sport in which we should have great potential to excel in 2012

Would I like this sport and what are the benefits?

Great sense of speed and freedom for those who like the water.

Can be quite tactical.

 

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