The RS500 International Class Association

Who are we?

Chair: Adriana Campanella
Vice-Chair: Jakub Dobry
Secretary: Viktor Haaksman
Treasurer: Oscar Deurloo
Public Relations: Nigel Davis

The RS500 International Class Association 

The RS500 International Class Association exists for one purpose, to protect the integrity of the class and deliver the best possible racing for its sailors worldwide. 

By balancing performance, fairness and growth the ICA underpins the manufacturers ‘one design status’ to ensure that the RS500 remains true to its principles wherever it is sailed.  

Fair Racing, Everywhere 

Under this strict ‘one design philosophy’ only minor adjustments to the boat’s equipment are permitted (CLASS RULES). We do this to ensure that when you line up on the start line in an RS500 the result is decided by the skill, teamwork, and tactics of the crews. Whilst the ICA’s role also ensures sailors adhere to the class rules and approved equipment through formal measurement processes at major events. 

Putting Class Sailors First 

The Association represents a broad and diverse international membership: 

• Club sailors to elite competitors 

• Youth and emerging talent 

• Young and not so young 
   

We listen and respond to the needs of sailors by: 

• Engaging with our national class associations 

• Gathering feedback from national class associations and at international events 

• Supporting wider fleet development initiatives 
   

Great events build great classes. 

In partnership with leading clubs and venues, the manufacturer, sponsors and partners, we curate a compelling international racing programme, that includes the prestigious European and Eurocup ranking events held annually. These bring sailors: 

• High-quality race management  

• Great sailing  

• Memorable social environments 

A Growing International Footprint 

Since 2014, the RS500 has continued to expand beyond the four main established fleets. Our international competitors have represented: 
 
🇧🇪 Belgium 🇨🇿 Czech Rep 🇪🇪 Estonia 🇫🇷 France 🇩🇪 Germany 🇭🇺 Hungary 🇮🇹 Italy 🇳🇱 Netherlands 🇸🇰 Slovakia 🇪🇸 Spain 🇸🇪 Sweden 🇨🇭 Switzerland 🇺🇦 Ukraine 🇬🇧 UK 🇦🇺 Australia 🇺🇸 United States .

In many of these regions, sailors are active without a formal national class association, demonstrating both the accessibility of the boat and the opportunity for structured growth. 

Our role is to support and encourage that momentum. 

We actively support: 

• The establishment of new national class associations 

• The development of emerging fleets 

• Knowledge sharing between established and developing regions 

 
Whether you are an individual sailor or a small group building a fleet, we provide guidance, structure, and support. If you currently race or wish to race an RS500 and would like to talk to the ICA about helping establish a NCA in your country, please contact us by email and a member of the board will get back to you. (info@rs500.international). 

Governance, Strategy & Stewardship 

The Association provides structured and transparent governance to ensure long-term success. 

Our responsibilities include: 

• Class strategy and development 

• Marketing and international promotion of the class 

• Financial stewardship and sound fiscal policy 

• Supporting sustainable fleet growth 
   

Members, Data & Communication 

We maintain and manage member data responsibly to: 

• Support communication across the international fleet 

• Enable efficient organisation of international activity 

• Strengthen connections between sailors and class associations 
   

Working with Clubs & Venues 

Strong relationships with host clubs are critical to delivering successful events. 

We work closely with venues internationally to: 

• Select the right locations for international competition 

• Ensure high standards of race management 

• Create welcoming environments for all sailors 
   

Accountability to the Membership 

This is your class, and your views matter to us, so each year, we deliver: 

• An Annual General Meeting (AGM) 

• Reports on our activities and finances 

• Opportunities for members to shape the future of the class 

Join the Class. Shape Its Future. 

The RS500 represents a global community of sailors that are drawn to fair competition, great socials, and shared experience. 

Become a member (MEMBERSHIP) 
Take part in international events (CALENDAR) 

  

Race hard. Play hard. Belong.