The RS Venture Connect European Championship 2025 was held on the breathtaking Lysakerfjorden just outside Oslo, Norway, 22nd – 23rd August. This year’s event marked a historic first, the Continental Championship for the RS Venture Connect Class – a big step forward for para sailing and inclusive competition in Europe.
Day 1
The first day of the championship started in some challenging conditions, with 10-15 knot winds with some big gusts. The sailors had to consider more than just speed; it was about timing, positioning, and a fair bit of luck. Despite the tricky breeze, the top teams quickly rose to the challenge. Team Sweden led the competition at the end of the day.
Day 2
Sailors were treated to bright sunshine and a fresh northerly breeze, creating great racing conditions. The fleet completed another three races. With the wind shifting constantly, success came down to tactical decision-making and spot-on execution.
Day 3
The final morning on Lysakerfjorden dawned with slightly lighter winds, adding a fresh set of tactical challenges. And with the leaderboard still wide open, everything came down to the last three scheduled races.
Going into the day, it was a tight race between Sweden, Spain, Great Britain, and France. The Spanish team, Pau Toni Homar & Ramòn Gutierres, rose to the occasion winning all three races and securing the European title. For the Inclusive Category, Jazz Turner & Adam Billany took the podium position.
Final Results:
Para:
- Gold: Spain – Pau Toni Homar & Ramòn Gutierres (Club de Vela Puerto de Andratx)
- Silver: Sweden – Patric Rosenberg (VhSS) & Fia Fjelddahl (GKSS – Royal Gothenburg Yacht Club)
- Bronze: France – Ange Margaron & Olivier Ducruix (Base Nautique de Sciez)
Inclusive:
- Gold: Great Britain – Jazz Turner & Adam Billany (Newhaven & Seaford Sailing Club)
- Silver: Norway – Henrik Julius Nilsen (Fredrikstad Seilforening) & Stian Soltveidt (Askøy Seilforening)
- Bronze: Norway – Lars Ivar Eilerås (KNS) & Axel Heiberg (KNS)
Full results: 2025 RS Venture Connect European Championship manage2sail
The 2025 Championship has set a new benchmark for inclusive competition. We can’t wait to see what’s next for the RS Venture Connect class. But for now, congratulations to all competitors, organisers, and supporters.
Article by RS Sailing
