The SKUD 18 is a sailing boat designed specifically for disabled sailors. It was developed by Chris Mitchell and Julian Bethwaite in 2005 for the purpose of creating a high-performance, two-person keelboat that could be sailed by people with a wide range of disabilities.
The name "SKUD" stands for "Singlehanded Keelboat Universal Design." The number 18 refers to the boat's length in feet. The SKUD 18 was recognized as a Paralympic class boat and made its debut at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing.
The SKUD 18 features a modern design with a sleek hull shape and a powerful sail plan. It is a two-person boat, with one sailor controlling the helm and the other managing the sails. The boat is equipped with a lifting keel, which allows for easy launching and recovery, as well as improved stability while sailing.
One of the key features of the SKUD 18 is its adaptability to accommodate sailors with different disabilities. The boat can be customized with various assistive devices, such as joystick steering, sip-and-puff controls, or hand-operated controls, depending on the sailor's needs. This makes it possible for sailors with a wide range of physical disabilities to compete on an equal playing field.
The SKUD 18 is known for its high-performance capabilities, allowing sailors to reach impressive speeds and maneuverability. It requires a good level of skill and athleticism to sail competitively. The boat is often used for racing, both at the Paralympic level and in other disabled sailing events around the world.
Overall, the SKUD 18 has played a significant role in promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the sport of sailing. It has provided disabled sailors with the opportunity to compete at the highest level and has helped to break down barriers in the sailing community.
