Peter Barton has stepped down as International Class Manager of the RS Aero after more than a decade guiding the lightweight dinghy’s global growth.
Barton hands the role to RS Aero 5 European champion Sammy Isaacs-Johnson, who will take charge of the class’s next phase.
The transition marks the end of an 11-year period in which Barton helped develop the RS Aero into a widely sailed international racing class. “It was a great honour to take on the role,” Barton said. “I got to define the process of managing the class myself… the challenge was really an ‘information’ one; getting messages out to sailors in isolated parts of the world.”
From Early Sailing to Global Class
Barton’s sailing journey began in childhood in an Enterprise dinghy near Abersoch in Wales. He later competed in high-performance classes, including 18-foot skiffs and International Moths.
Barton said the appeal of sailing began with independence. “I think it was the freedom — the ability to take a boat out as a youngster and just have that responsibility of being out on your own,” he said.
He initially questioned whether the simple RS Aero would hold his interest. “After sailing it, I realised it was a great racing challenge,” he said.
Solo Speed — Peter Barton drives an RS Aero through choppy water during racing, the lightweight 32kg dinghy that helped build a fast-growing international class under his leadership.
Building a Global Community
During Barton’s tenure, the RS Aero developed fleets across Europe, Australia, Asia and the Americas.
He focused on making the boat accessible and easy to sail while supporting a growing international calendar of regattas. “I wanted to make sure that every sailor across the world knew exactly how to rig, set up and enjoy their Aeros,” he said. “If it’s hard work, you’re probably doing it wrong.”
Barton said the sailors themselves have been central to the class’s success. “The camaraderie of the RS Aero sailor is a very special sort of person,” he said.
Events and International Growth
Major regattas have helped build the class profile in recent years. Barton pointed to the RS Aero World Championship in Quiberon, France, in 2025 and a record fleet at the 2026 Australian National Championships.
The 2027 RS Aero World Championship is scheduled to return to Australia. Barton said planning events well in advance has been key to attracting sailors from different countries. “I think people like to get something in the diary,” he said.
Leadership Change
Isaacs-Johnson has been active in the RS Aero class for a decade and currently serves as head UK coach for winter training.
Barton said the class will be in capable hands. “I think Sammy will be fantastic for the class,” he said. “He’s hugely experienced and all set.”
RS Sailing Managing Director Alex Newton-Southon thanked Barton for his contribution. “Your passion, energy and commitment have been instrumental in building the class into what it is today,” he said.
