Para World Sailing equipment evaluation to take place in Malcesine

Fraglia Vela Malcesine, Italy will host the first of two Para World Sailing equipment evaluations from 7-8 May 2016 with the aim of choosing two new classes to increase participation in disabled sailing.

Following the announcement that sailing was not to feature in the Paralympic program at Tokyo 2020, World Sailing and the Para World Sailing Committee have been working tirelessly to reinstate the sport for the Paralympic Games of 2024. 

These evaluations are essential in choosing new equipment to help satisfy the criteria laid out by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) where previously disabled sailing has fallen short.

The main focus of the evaluations will be to choose equipment that can increase participation in developed and emerging nations so that a stronger grass roots program is available to disabled athletes world-wide, which will lead to higher participation at the elite level.

As well as equipment, the Evaluation Working Party will also investigate possible changes to racing formats that encourage modern and fast paced stadium style racing meant to encourage media coverage and press opportunities while making sailing spectator friendly and easily understandable.

The Boats accepted for evaluation are:
 
Hansa 303 (1 Person/2 Person) www.hansasailing.com/hansa-303-wide.html
Hansa Liberty (1 Person) www.hansasailing.com/liberty.html
Rs Venture (2 person) www.rssailing.com/en/explore/rs-venture-keel/articles/sailability-pack
Weta Trimaran (1 Person/2 Person) www.wetamarine.com/
Windrider AS1 (1 Person) www.windrider.com/windrider-17.html

A second evaluation will take place at the Regatta Center Medemblik, Netherlands from 31 May – 1 June and a thorough analysis made before World Sailing select One-Person and Two-Person boats during the Annual Conference in November of 2016.