The RS Venture Connect European Championship 2025 was held on the breathtaking Lysakerfjorden just outside Oslo, Norway, 22nd – 23rd August. This year’s event marked a historic first, the Continental Championship for the RS Venture Connect Class – a big step forward for para sailing and inclusive competition in Europe.
Day 1
The first day of the championship started in some challenging conditions, with 10-15 knot winds with some big gusts. The sailors had to consider more than just speed; it was about timing, positioning, and a fair bit of luck. Despite the tricky breeze, the top teams quickly rose to the challenge. Team Sweden led the competition at the end of the day.
Day 2
Sailors were treated to bright sunshine and a fresh northerly breeze, creating great racing conditions. The fleet completed another three races. With the wind shifting constantly, success came down to tactical decision-making and spot-on execution.
Day 3
The final morning on Lysakerfjorden dawned with slightly lighter winds, adding a fresh set of tactical challenges. And with the leaderboard still wide open, everything came down to the last three scheduled races.
Going into the day, it was a tight race between Sweden, Spain, Great Britain, and France. The Spanish team, Pau Toni Homar & Ramòn Gutierres, rose to the occasion winning all three races and securing the European title. For the Inclusive Category, Jazz Turner & Adam Billany took the podium position.
Final Results:
Para:
- Gold: Spain – Pau Toni Homar & Ramòn Gutierres (Club de Vela Puerto de Andratx)
- Silver: Sweden – Patric Rosenberg (VhSS) & Fia Fjelddahl (GKSS – Royal Gothenburg Yacht Club)
- Bronze: France – Ange Margaron & Olivier Ducruix (Base Nautique de Sciez)
Inclusive:
- Gold: Great Britain – Jazz Turner & Adam Billany (Newhaven & Seaford Sailing Club)
- Silver: Norway – Henrik Julius Nilsen (Fredrikstad Seilforening) & Stian Soltveidt (Askøy Seilforening)
- Bronze: Norway – Lars Ivar Eilerås (KNS) & Axel Heiberg (KNS)
Full results: 2025 RS Venture Connect European Championship manage2sail
The 2025 Championship has set a new benchmark for inclusive competition. We can’t wait to see what’s next for the RS Venture Connect class. But for now, congratulations to all competitors, organisers, and supporters.