Teams pairing one sailor with a physical or intellectual disability with one without competed at Prien Stippelwerft on the Chiemsee for the Para International German and Bavarian Championship, racing RS Venture Connect boats specially designed for parasailing qualification events.
It was the first time the class competed under a one-design classification, giving the event officially sanctioned status. The qualification round ran on day one, with gold, silver, and bronze fleet finals held on day two. Five motorised support boats maintained fairness and safety throughout.
Gerald Zernatto and Claudia Wohlschlägl of Felden Yacht Club (YCV) took the win. Felipe Fauner and Alexander Neufang of Prien Sailing Club finished second, with Sebastian Meierdiecks and Karin Hofmann, also from Prien, third.
The venue drew warm praise. "We had a lot of fun on the water and on land. A lovely spot and lovely people," said one competitor. Hubert, a wheelchair user from Innsbruck, was struck by the care taken during boat changes: "That's real hard work. The lads were careful and quick." Heiko Erdmann, a wheelchair user from Berlin who made the trip by motorhome with his dog, summed it up simply: "There's nothing missing here."
The Prien Stippelwerft site is well suited to inclusive regattas, backed by the local council, the district, the State of Bavaria, local sponsors, and the SCPC's own infrastructure. Mayor Andreas Friedrich set the tone in his welcome speech: "We're all pulling in the same direction here." Senior figures from the DSV, BVS, DBS, and the Bavarian State Parliament were among those who attended.
Catering was handled by club members, giving the clubhouse and marquee a communal atmosphere throughout. Prize-winners received medals, certificates, and a Herrenchiemsee Palace mug filled with specialties from Frauenchiemsee Abbey.
The event draws supporters well beyond the region and is widely viewed as a working model for inclusive sailing.
