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🏁 RS Aero UK Winter Training – Paignton SC, Devon ⛵️

The RS Aero UK Winter Training Series landed at Paignton Sailing Club for an action-packed weekend of coaching, skill development, and on-water learning.

Day 1 delivered light winds and sunshine, with just enough chop to keep sailors on their toes. The fleet was split into two groups: the morning kicked off with first beat tactics and light-wind downwind exercises, followed by a beat across the harbour, and a long downwind run practicing how to catch and ride the waves for maximum speed.

On Day 2, the conditions were dramatically different — thick fog rolled in, with the pier disappearing and reappearing through the mist, creating a unique challenge for visibility and navigation. The sessions focused on picking a side of the first beat and maintaining opportunities, helping sailors sharpen tactical decision-making under uncertain conditions. Downwind, sailors practiced pushing their by-the-lee sailing, before finishing the day with races featuring a gate halfway up the beat, testing starts, course management, and mark rounding under real race scenarios.

Under the guidance of expert coaches George Cousins and Sammy IJ, participants of all ages and abilities refined their skills, learning not just the mechanics of sailing but also race strategy, boat trim, and reading the water in a wide variety of conditions.

A huge thank-you to Paignton Sailing Club, the dedicated coaches, and our class sponsor, Rooster Sailing, whose support makes these weekends accessible, fun, and packed with opportunity to improve. This training weekend was the perfect way to sharpen skills and get ready for the 2026 racing season!

📄 More info: RS Aero UK Winter Training – Paignton SC

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