The 2.4 Metre World Championship get underway on 21 September 2005 in Elba, Italy. Over 80 sailors representing 13 nations are expected to compete. While the 2.4 Metre, a single-handed keelboat, is generally known as a Paralympic class boat, this event has been classed as an open event allowing both able bodied and disabled sailors to enter.

Eight British sailors will take to the Italian waters, including RYA Team GBR members, Helena Lucas, Megan Pascoe, Michael Cogswell and Athens Olympian Allan Smith.

Helena Lucas has had a strong season in the 2.4 Metre winning a third at the Kiel Week Regatta, a first at Hyeres Week Regatta and most recently a fourth at the IFDS World Championships. “We have quite a big fleet out here with past and present world champions so there should be some good racing,” Lucas commented. “I can already tell I have got my work cut out but I am really up to the challenge.”

Megan Pascoe, a member of the RYA Development squad is certainly one to watch. Recently completing her A-levels, Pascoe finished in fifth overall at the IFDS Worlds and this will be her second top level event the season.

RYA 2.4 Metre Coach Adam May explained: “The squad seems to be well prepared for the worlds. As there is a big fleet here we have changed our tactics slightly and have been focusing on getting clean starts. I think all the sailors are excited to get out on the water and get this event underway.”

The event begins 21 September and continues through to 24 September 2005.