New opportunities at the RYA Sailability Multiclass Regatta

by Becky Gilbert-Wood 23 Apr 2019 16:12 BST 5-7 July 2019

This year's RYA Sailability Multiclass Regatta will be hosted at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) in partnership with Chesil Sailability, from 05-07 July 2019.

The regatta - now the UK's biggest disability sailing event of its kind - promises three inspirational days of racing and alternative activities on the protected waters of the harbour.

Alongside the usual fleet racing and Ken Ellis Pursuit Race, there will also be new opportunities for participants to try sailing, racing and ultimately to find out more about all that's possible on-the-water.

New for 2019

• Keelboat League several short races in a league format - enter a team, turn up and race in Elliot 6m keelboats provided by the organisers.

• Team Racing a series of action-packed short races on the Friday afternoon. Each boat will be randomly paired with another for each race, with four boats racing at a time in teams of two. A friendly and fun way for competitors to develop their boat handling and rules knowledge!

• Sip and Puff sailing for those that are unable to sail a conventional boat because of the physical demands, but have good breath control, the Miss Isle Sailing School will be providing opportunities to try 'Sip and Puff' sailing over the weekend.

• Try Racing - Go Racing - an introduction to sailing and racing for people with learning disabilities. A chance for new, or more experienced, sailors to take their first competitive steps on the water, with plenty of support and guidance on offer from staff and volunteers at the Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre.

Returning favourites

• Pursuit Race - a fun, social race for all boats and classes - see who emerges the champion of champions!
• Fleet racing - races over a set course, testing boat handling, strategy and tactics.

The inclusive event is open to all ages and abilities. With competitors expected to range from those who have competed at an international level, to beginners just getting started - no previous racing experience is required.

There really will be something for everyone, with visitors able to enjoy beautiful Weymouth and Portland, and on-the-water opportunities for the whole family. Spectators will this year also be able to take advantage of stand up paddle boarding and windsurfing taster sessions facilitated by the OTC.

RYA Sailability Manager, Joff McGill commented: "We are delighted to be taking the Multiclass Regatta to the WPNSA this year and look forward to adding value for visitors through new opportunities to get involved. There is always a fantastic buzz at the event, which over the years has become a real festival and celebration of everything that is possible on the water.

"I'd like to thank our partners and all the volunteers that will be offering their support over the weekend, we really do have a fantastic team and there will be lots of help on hand for all the sailors that are coming down to compete. We look forward to seeing you all there."

For more information about all the different activities on offer at this year's RYA Sailability Multiclass Regatta, the notice of race and to enter visit rya.org.uk/go/multiclass.

To find out more about sailing opportunities for disabled people or those that need specific support to get on-the-water visit rya.org.uk/sailability