WHEN he was a youngster growing up sailing superstar, Rudy McNeill wasn’t into radio controlled (RC) high-flying helicopters, off-road monster trucks or drift cars, he was more of a RC scale model boat man.

Whether gliding gracefully across the pond or sailing from shore to shore, the 2012 SA Laser national champ said his involvement in the radio controlled laser champs have provided him with invaluable insight into improving his sailing techniques. Though in its infancy the sport has fast taken off with 120 strong fleet across Durban, Knysna and Gauteng. What’s even more unique is many of the competitors are sailors, like McNeill, of full-scale yachts in various forms.

“Scale boats are more about authenticity and realism and are meant to be as true as possible to their full-size counterparts. You really get a birds eye view of the race. It’s helped to read wind and water conditions better and be more aware of certain situations,” he said.

McNeill, who has received his South African colours four times, is the only sailor from Durban North to hold a national title in the laser champs as well as the radio controlled laser champs which he won back in 2010.

At the recent Radio Controlled Laser SA National Championships, McNeill finished third behind La Lucia’s Richard Weddell and defending champ Des Fairbank.

“I was aiming to win but there’s always next year,” he joked. The former Northwood School pupil has now set his sights on qualifying for the 2016 Olympics.

For more information on radio controlled sailing visit the Durban Radio Boat Club website www.drbc.co.za or email sailing@drbc.co.za