RS Sailing
Premier Way, Abbey Park
Romsey Hampshire SO51 9DQ
01794 526760
RS Sailing
Premier Way, Abbey Park
Romsey Hampshire SO51 9DQ
01794 526760

The future’s bright for the RS Venture Connect

February 21, 2018
RS Venture Connect Para - Le Grande Motte 2017

Helena Lucas, Paralympic Gold and Bronze medalist in the 2.4m Class has recently been appointed to help steer the new RS Venture Connect Class. Following the recent announcement of the RS Venture Connect being selected as the new Para double-handed class.

We spoke to Helena to understand a little more from behind the scenes.

Helena Lucas - Paralympic Sailor - RS Venture Connect Future

“Recently I was approached by RS Sailing to see if I’d be interested in being involved with the RS Venture Connect. After hearing the announcement at the World Sailing Conference that the RS Venture Connect was going to be the new Para double-handed class, I was keen to be involved.

In finding out more, it quickly became apparent we were going to be privileged with a format change, and the new proposed format of stadium racing with a knock out round going into Semi finals and a final, is an exciting step forward for Paralympic sailing.

The RS Venture Connect reminds me a lot of the RS200, which my husband and I used to race together. We now have a slightly larger boat (!) that is taking up some of our time as we fit her out for some offshore racing we have planned for this year and next.

A new vision, a new Class

My vision with the Class is to make it cool and exciting. As a sailor having competed at 3 Games, I believe many of us want to see Para sailing moving with the times and following the development of the Olympic classes whilst still being accessible and believe the RS Venture Connect is definitely a step in that direction. Configuration for the Worlds in Sheboygan is currently the two seat set up, but there are discussions to have the option for one seat with the crew being able to move around the boat and hike as required, which for the sport will be awesome.

I have had some really positive feedback from sailors, excited by the opportunity to be more physical in the front of the boat, whilst still catering for the more disabled athletes who can take up the seated helming position. With the 8 point system we are trying to encourage a mix of disabilities to come together and sail with each other and with an extra point up for grabs if your female, support more female participation in our sport.

Accessible for all

The RS Venture Connect can equally appeal to everyone – especially with the electronic steering system and joystick, which will be available at the worlds. This really opens things up and makes it accessible to everybody.

There is a real buzz around the proposed idea of one crewmember being able to hike and move more around the boat, which would make the RS Venture Connect the first Paralympic Class you can do that with. Allowing the physical side of sailing to come back in one of the classes would be amazing and really appeal to many sailors

RS Venture Connect SCS

I know there is concern about the 4 and 5 pointers and whether they will be able to crew with the single seat configuration. With a transfer seat and grab bar (which will be supplied with the boats) I don’t see an issue. Although they may not be able to hike, with the short course racing I don’t think it will have a big impact.

There is also the two seat configuration, with all control lines being lead back to the central console just in front of the helm and crew, this really opens up the options.

 

Para Worlds – Sheboygan

The proposed format for the Worlds is an exciting stadium style racing with a knock out round leading into a semi final and a final. This will make it really exciting for spectators who can watch the racing from the shore and offers something different to Paralympic sailing, which up until now has been fleet racing. It is also likely to help with media coverage, being more of a spectator set up and give the opportunity for live drone footage and commentary being streamed live on social media.

Paralympic Games

I remember I was in Miami at the World Cup when it was announced that sailing was going to be dropped from the 2020 Paralympics. Initially I did not realize the consequences and impact it would have, having made the decision to retire from Paralympic sailing after Rio. Soon however I began to think of my friends and competitors and realized the impact it was going to have on their lives. In particular fellow team GBR sailors, who now with me out of the way finally have their chance to win a medal at the Games. I have made some great friends on the circuit and there is a real sense of community within Paralympic sailing. It doesn’t seem fair that they don’t have the opportunity to compete on the World Stage that they so deserved.

Para Sailing

When you see people leaving the dock, you can visibly see those sailors leave their disability behind. It’s an even playing field and not many sports, (if any), that disabled sailors can compete alongside able bodies sailors. The 2.4mR Class is a great example with numerous Paralympic sailors medaling at the Open World Championships. It is an even playing field and you can be competing against the best able-bodied sailor; it’s all in the tactics, knowledge and skill. It is the perfect example of a sport that is incredibly special.

The RS Venture Connect is very similar. You can change, and adapt the boat to suit whatever you need, and once you do that you leave that disability on the shore.

RS Venture Connect Class

So my task is now to help develop the Class, set it up and make it an amazing Class to be involved in, and all the while help sailing get back in for the 2024 Games. Realizing by not being part of the Games we have lost the opportunity, to inspire all those youngsters that might be watching to come and have a go at our sport is incredibly disappointing.

There is a boat for everyone regardless of your level of disability, the RS Venture is for you – get out there. Sailing is one of those things – you’re one with nature and it can be exciting, exhilarating, peaceful, relaxing all in one day!

The RS Venture Connect and all the design features covers a massively spectrum of physical disability, there is literally no one that can’t have the opportunity to sail this boat, and enjoy it. The simplicity of the boat, welcomes non-sailors too as they can be sailed with a more seasoned sailor.

For more information on the RS Venture Connect Class head over to the Class Page.

See you on the water!”

SUBSCRIBE

  • Sign up for RS stories, offers, epic wipeout videos and much more!
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

‘It’s Always Been RS’: A Conversation with Ben Willows, the New CEO of RS Marine Group

There are some people whose passion for sailing runs so deep, it feels like it’s woven into their DNA. Ben Willows is one of those people. Appointed CEO of RS Marine Group in June 2025, Ben brings...

We’re Hiring! Direct Sales Executive at RS Sailing

Job Title: RS Sailing Direct Sales Executive Location: Based at our Romsey headquarters, with plenty of travel throughout the United Kingdom Salary: £25,000 per year basic, plus commission and...

Leadership Transition for Sailing Raceboats, RS Sailing’s Distributor in Australia

After 15 years at the helm of Sailing Raceboats Pty Ltd, Tom Pearce is stepping back from day-to-day operations, appointing Rhett Gowans as the new Managing Director.   Since its inception in...

Viva la Feva-volution! Catalonia’s Youth Set Sail with the Lliga Blava Escolar

A fleet of 36 new RS Fevas were flying as young sailors from across Catalonia hit the water for a thrilling event on 15th June hosted by The Barcelona International Sailing Centre. Catalonia’s...

The RS200 Nationals 2025 – The Glastonbury of the UK Sailing Scene!

Move over The 1975 and *checks notes* Rod Stewart (?!) - the countdown for the 'Glastonbury of the UK sailing scene' is on. With 96 entries already locked in, the RS200 fleet are just a few sailors...

Ben Willows Appointed CEO of RS Marine Group, Embarking on Next Chapter of Strategic Growth

RS Marine Group is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Willows as its new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience, Ben brings not only a proven...

Growing with RS Sailing: An Interview with Liam Willis

Liam Willis, Keelboat Manager and Technical Support Specialist at RS Sailing, has been a lifelong sailor and passionate advocate for the sport. With a personal sailing history that spans nearly the...

Introducing the RS Aira 22 – A New Daysailer in our Adventure Range

We are proud to announce the addition of the RS Aira 22 to our cruising portfolio, as we take on the build license, distribution, marketing and sales from Aira Boats. This keelboat represents a...

One Sport on Swiss Waters: Swiss SailGP Team X Swiss Disabled Sailing

Last month, Swiss SailGP Team athletes Arnaud Psarofaghis (wing trimmer), Bryan Mettraux (flight controller) and Arno de Planta (reserve and pathway athlete), joined Swiss Disabled...
RS 200 - Fleet

RS Sailing Store named as Official Chandlery Partner for UK RS National Championships

The UK RS Class Association is thrilled to announce that RS Sailing Store will be the official chandlery partner for the noughty and RS Vareo class National Championships 2025. This collaboration...

We’re Hiring! Direct Sales Executive at RS Sailing

Job Title: RS Sailing Direct Sales Executive Location: Based at our Romsey headquarters, with plenty of travel throughout the United Kingdom Salary: £25,000 per year basic, plus commission and...

Leadership Transition for Sailing Raceboats, RS Sailing’s Distributor in Australia

After 15 years at the helm of Sailing Raceboats Pty Ltd, Tom Pearce is stepping back from day-to-day operations, appointing Rhett Gowans as the new Managing Director.   Since its inception in...

Viva la Feva-volution! Catalonia’s Youth Set Sail with the Lliga Blava Escolar

A fleet of 36 new RS Fevas were flying as young sailors from across Catalonia hit the water for a thrilling event on 15th June hosted by The Barcelona International Sailing Centre. Catalonia’s...

The RS200 Nationals 2025 – The Glastonbury of the UK Sailing Scene!

Move over The 1975 and *checks notes* Rod Stewart (?!) - the countdown for the 'Glastonbury of the UK sailing scene' is on. With 96 entries already locked in, the RS200 fleet are just a few sailors...

Ben Willows Appointed CEO of RS Marine Group, Embarking on Next Chapter of Strategic Growth

RS Marine Group is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Willows as its new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience, Ben brings not only a proven...

Growing with RS Sailing: An Interview with Liam Willis

Liam Willis, Keelboat Manager and Technical Support Specialist at RS Sailing, has been a lifelong sailor and passionate advocate for the sport. With a personal sailing history that spans nearly the...

Introducing the RS Aira 22 – A New Daysailer in our Adventure Range

We are proud to announce the addition of the RS Aira 22 to our cruising portfolio, as we take on the build license, distribution, marketing and sales from Aira Boats. This keelboat represents a...

One Sport on Swiss Waters: Swiss SailGP Team X Swiss Disabled Sailing

Last month, Swiss SailGP Team athletes Arnaud Psarofaghis (wing trimmer), Bryan Mettraux (flight controller) and Arno de Planta (reserve and pathway athlete), joined Swiss Disabled...
RS 200 - Fleet

RS Sailing Store named as Official Chandlery Partner for UK RS National Championships

The UK RS Class Association is thrilled to announce that RS Sailing Store will be the official chandlery partner for the noughty and RS Vareo class National Championships 2025. This collaboration...

Top 10 Accessories for the RS Quest

The RS Quest has been a trusted training dinghy for over a decade and we’re celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2025. Known for its durability and versatility, this best-seller is ideal for...

Leadership Transition for Sailing Raceboats, RS Sailing’s Distributor in Australia

After 15 years at the helm of Sailing Raceboats Pty Ltd, Tom Pearce is stepping back from day-to-day operations, appointing Rhett Gowans as the new Managing Director.   Since its inception in...

Viva la Feva-volution! Catalonia’s Youth Set Sail with the Lliga Blava Escolar

A fleet of 36 new RS Fevas were flying as young sailors from across Catalonia hit the water for a thrilling event on 15th June hosted by The Barcelona International Sailing Centre. Catalonia’s...

The RS200 Nationals 2025 – The Glastonbury of the UK Sailing Scene!

Move over The 1975 and *checks notes* Rod Stewart (?!) - the countdown for the 'Glastonbury of the UK sailing scene' is on. With 96 entries already locked in, the RS200 fleet are just a few sailors...

Ben Willows Appointed CEO of RS Marine Group, Embarking on Next Chapter of Strategic Growth

RS Marine Group is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Willows as its new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience, Ben brings not only a proven...

Growing with RS Sailing: An Interview with Liam Willis

Liam Willis, Keelboat Manager and Technical Support Specialist at RS Sailing, has been a lifelong sailor and passionate advocate for the sport. With a personal sailing history that spans nearly the...

Introducing the RS Aira 22 – A New Daysailer in our Adventure Range

We are proud to announce the addition of the RS Aira 22 to our cruising portfolio, as we take on the build license, distribution, marketing and sales from Aira Boats. This keelboat represents a...

One Sport on Swiss Waters: Swiss SailGP Team X Swiss Disabled Sailing

Last month, Swiss SailGP Team athletes Arnaud Psarofaghis (wing trimmer), Bryan Mettraux (flight controller) and Arno de Planta (reserve and pathway athlete), joined Swiss Disabled...
RS 200 - Fleet

RS Sailing Store named as Official Chandlery Partner for UK RS National Championships

The UK RS Class Association is thrilled to announce that RS Sailing Store will be the official chandlery partner for the noughty and RS Vareo class National Championships 2025. This collaboration...

Top 10 Accessories for the RS Quest

The RS Quest has been a trusted training dinghy for over a decade and we’re celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2025. Known for its durability and versatility, this best-seller is ideal for...

How To Get Started with Catamaran Sailing: Top Tips for Beginners

Sailing a catamaran is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, offering the thrill of speed, stability, and a unique way to explore the water. If you’re thinking about learning how to sail on a...

Viva la Feva-volution! Catalonia’s Youth Set Sail with the Lliga Blava Escolar

A fleet of 36 new RS Fevas were flying as young sailors from across Catalonia hit the water for a thrilling event on 15th June hosted by The Barcelona International Sailing Centre. Catalonia’s...

The RS200 Nationals 2025 – The Glastonbury of the UK Sailing Scene!

Move over The 1975 and *checks notes* Rod Stewart (?!) - the countdown for the 'Glastonbury of the UK sailing scene' is on. With 96 entries already locked in, the RS200 fleet are just a few sailors...

Ben Willows Appointed CEO of RS Marine Group, Embarking on Next Chapter of Strategic Growth

RS Marine Group is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Willows as its new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience, Ben brings not only a proven...

Growing with RS Sailing: An Interview with Liam Willis

Liam Willis, Keelboat Manager and Technical Support Specialist at RS Sailing, has been a lifelong sailor and passionate advocate for the sport. With a personal sailing history that spans nearly the...

Introducing the RS Aira 22 – A New Daysailer in our Adventure Range

We are proud to announce the addition of the RS Aira 22 to our cruising portfolio, as we take on the build license, distribution, marketing and sales from Aira Boats. This keelboat represents a...

One Sport on Swiss Waters: Swiss SailGP Team X Swiss Disabled Sailing

Last month, Swiss SailGP Team athletes Arnaud Psarofaghis (wing trimmer), Bryan Mettraux (flight controller) and Arno de Planta (reserve and pathway athlete), joined Swiss Disabled...
RS 200 - Fleet

RS Sailing Store named as Official Chandlery Partner for UK RS National Championships

The UK RS Class Association is thrilled to announce that RS Sailing Store will be the official chandlery partner for the noughty and RS Vareo class National Championships 2025. This collaboration...

Top 10 Accessories for the RS Quest

The RS Quest has been a trusted training dinghy for over a decade and we’re celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2025. Known for its durability and versatility, this best-seller is ideal for...

How To Get Started with Catamaran Sailing: Top Tips for Beginners

Sailing a catamaran is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, offering the thrill of speed, stability, and a unique way to explore the water. If you’re thinking about learning how to sail on a...

RS Feva National Championships: Big Winds, Fancy Dress & Competitive Racing

The sun might have stayed hidden this bank holiday weekend, but the wind certainly showed up in force for the 2025 RS Feva National Championships. Over 90 dinghies from across the UK gathered at...

Pin It on Pinterest