Try an RS800

 2023 is an exciting year for the RS800 class. With a trip to Torbole, Lake Garda for the European Championships on the horizon and fresh energy in the class we are ready to go and keen to showcase what it is all about.

Over Spring 2023 we are pleased to be able to offer multiple 'Try an RS800' experiences across Europe. If you are interested in getting a taste of RS800 sailing then please reach out to the relevant contacts:

25-26 March @ Arradon, France: Mark Johnson, +33688119769

25-26 March @ Monteynard, France: Alexandre Emanuel, +33603393401

1-2 April @ Larmor Plage, France: Gilles Peeters, +33760483669

7 April @ Lac Du Der, France: Gilles Peeters, +33760483669

15-16 April @ Hayling Island Sailing Club, UK: Hugh Shone, hughshone913@gmail.com

Please note that the HISC date is part of a wider training weekend and so would be a great opportunity to see the UK class in action.

Ben Palmer has been sailing RS800s for three years and has recently joined the Class Committee to help us better understand our fleet with some recent survey work. There is no better person to talk to when trying to understand the appeal of the boat with current sailors:

Why do people sail RS800s?

"The survey showed that the main reason people get into RS800 sailing is for its raw appeal. It is a cool boat to sail and the majority of sailors enjoy the boat for those champagne sends in 15kts, for the thrill. The boat is also highly accessible for a wide range of sailors and backgrounds. The weight equalization, adjustable racks and differing mainsheet systems cater for different team make-ups. We have mixed teams with female crews and helms; we have sailors who are competing well into their 60s and still competitive. The thrill that the boat can deliver is accessible to a wide range of teams: it truly is accessible skiff sailing."