With the focus last week on ISAF’s equipment trials for the new 2016 Olympic classes, the RYA has announced it’s to stage two open training sessions for all sailors with an eye on the new mixed multihull discipline for Rio (see our earlier features Seven multihulls line up in Santander and An Olympic Skiff for women: the six contenders).

A high performance catamaran event will be making its return to the Olympic sailing programme for the 2016 Olympic Games for two-person mixed gender teams, and the RYA is initially arranging two two-day sessions at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy from 9-10 April and 17-18 May for interested parties.

The sessions will provide coached training and networking opportunities, as well as updates and insights following the trials and ultimate selection of the 2016 multihull equipment at the ISAF mid-year meeting in May.

The sessions, for sailors aged 18 and over, are open to:
·         Owners of any high-performance, twin-trapeze catamarans in mixed teams; or
·         Catamaran owners looking for helm/crew try-out opportunities; or
·         Individuals without boats looking for insights and try-out opportunities

RYA Olympic Development Squad Manager Barrie Edgington said: “Whether you’re a club sailor in a high-performance multihull or an existing or aspiring Olympian looking for a new challenge, these training sessions will provide a great platform to network and learn.

“We’ll have a great coaching and support team on hand to offer their expertise and insights so we’re looking forward to some fun sessions.”

boats.comPlaces at the two sessions will be limited – to be considered, sailors should complete and return the application form to Eleanor Black at [email protected] by no later than 5pm on Monday 5 April for the April training dates, and by 5pm Thursday 10 May for the May dates.

Existing Skandia Team GBR squad members can submit their expressions of interest by e-mail to [email protected] by the same dates.