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4 April 2003, 02:19 pm

Racing Starts Tomorrow

Australian 2.4mR National Championship

Canberra

Starting tomorrow in Canberra is the Australian National Championship for the Paralympic single-person 2.4 mR class. The last big regatta for Australians before those that are going head out to the world championship in Germany in August.

Designed to the Metre Rule, in the same way as the 12, 6 and 8 metre's, the 2.4mR is ideal equipment for the Paralympic Games. Stable, yet exciting and technical, the boat is steered by either foot pedals for able-bodied sailors, or a joystick and all controls are easily to hand for the helm. Sitting facing forward with only the helms head above the cockpit coaming, not unlike a formula one driver, hiking is not allowed. This aspect enables everyone, regardless of their physical ablility, to sail together.

It is expected that competitors will travel from all over Australia to the national championship in what is one of the fastest growing classes in the world. As well as being the equipment for the Paralympic Games, the boat is also used as the single-person keelboat in the IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championship, which this year are to be held in Athens from 4-12 September.

At the Australian Nationals, boats will launch and sail from the YMCA Sailing Club in Yarralumla bay, Canberra. Racing is over two days starting tomorrow.

ISAF News Editor

World Sailing TV

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