The first RS Venture Connect SCS has launched in Australian waters, the culmination of a two-year-long bid to bring the adaptive sailing boat down under.
The boat was purchased by Wynyard Yacht Club, supported by the Leo Lion Foundation (formerly known as the COINS Foundation) and North-West Support Services through the Sailability program.
“The RS Venture Connect, as a club boat, will add a further dimension to the highly successful Sailability fleet of HANSA 303s,” explained Christopher Symonds, club commodore who headed the club’s funding efforts to get the boat to Australia.
“The RS Venture Connect SCS club boat at Wynyard Yacht Club will be used for a range of activities including Sailability, learn-to-sail programs, club racing and training ahead of International RS Venture Connect competitions.”
The club’s goal is to be a Para Training Centre for when sailing is reinstated into the Paralympics.
Christopher Symonds, club commodore
He added: “The club’s goal is to be a Para Training Centre for when sailing is reinstated into the Paralympics.”
A Para World Champion sailor himself, Christopher wanted to bring accessibility to the sport and use the boat for inclusive programs in his local area.
The community focus of the RS Venture Connect will be managed by committee of management member, Neal Rodwell CEO of North West Support Services, one of the largest disability support organisations in Tasmania.
The boat will be used to introduce sailing to people managing disability, health conditions, aging and other marginalising circumstances.
The RS Venture Connect is designed with plug and play para inclusive sailing equipment options and can be set up for almost any disability. All controls lead towards the cockpit and a weighted keel and masthead float makes the boat self-righting for additional safety.
