Paralympic trials extended

The RYA has announced the continuation of trials for the 2.4mR, SKUD 18 and Sonar

Following the first phase of the trials process for the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, the Royal Yachting Association has today confirmed that the trials in the three Paralympic classes will be extended to include regatta results from early 2008.

The trials in the 2.4mR (one-person keelboat), the SKUD-18 (two-person keelboat) and the Sonar (three-person keelboat) will continue with events to include the Rolex Miami Olympic Classes Regatta from 27 January-2 February 2008 and, if required, the Disabled/Open Midwinters at the St Petersburg Yacht Club, Florida (USA) from 28 February-2 March 2008.

The RYA’s Paralympic Selection Committee has determined that the trials will continue for a shortlist of sailors, namely:

2.4mR
Helena Lucas
Megan Pascoe

Sonar
John Robertson-Hannah Stodel-Stephen Thomas

SKUD-18
Niki Birrell-Alexandra Rickham
Allan Smith-Jackie Gay

Chris Atkins, Chairman of the RYA’s Paralympic Selection Committee, commented: “Skandia Team GBR’s sailors showed good potential during the IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championships – the first stage of the trials – earlier this year, but after coming away from the event empty-handed, we wanted to give our leading sailors more time to show the selectors that they’re capable of winning medals for Team GB at the Paralympic Games next year.

“By extending the trials process, the sailors will have another chance to prove their mettle against some tough international competition.”