I currently sail an RS Aero out of Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron (BYS), where the fleet has seen explosive growth. I recently competed in the 2026 Australian National Championships, a landmark event that drew a record-breaking fleet of 114 boats to our home waters.

Racing the Aero demands a high level of athleticism and technical precision. Its light, 30kg hull is incredibly responsive, making every wind shift and body movement critical to boat speed. Beyond major regattas, I am an active participant in our regular club racing at BYS, where the unique tidal influences and famous Port Phillip “chop” provide a constant tactical challenge.

Looking ahead, my focus is on the 2027 RS Aero World Championships. With the event being hosted right here at Blairgowrie, I am dedicated to a rigorous training program to represent my club against an expected international fleet of over 150 boats.

The RS Aero is a modern, single-handed dinghy that has redefined the “off-the-beach” experience since its 2014 launch. Designed by Jo Richards and built with ultra-light carbon fiber components, it weighs roughly the same as an Optimist but performs like a high-performance skiff.

Why it’s a standout class:

Pure Responsiveness: The minimal hull weight rewards balance and agility, offering a “flighty” and thrilling ride.

Inclusivity: With four different rig sizes (5, 6, 7, and 9), the boat is competitive for a massive range of sailor weights and ages.

Global Community: It is now a firmly established international one-design class with a professional racing circuit and a reputation for being one of the most supportive fleets in the world.