PARALYMPIC star Helena Lucas has paid her first-ever visit to Rio.

The former Portland resident said initially the objective of the trip was just to “recce the place, get a RIB and check out the tides, winds, get familiar with areas, make contact with people locally we hope are going to be able to help in the build-up to the Games, etc”.

But as soon as the Brazilian 2.4mR sailors heard she was there, they wanted to go boat training with them.

Team Volvo sailor Lucas said: “My first trip to Rio has been really fantastic. It took me a couple of days to get into the Brazilian way and find the lie of the land.

“I’ve made some fantastic contacts and everyone here is really excited that we’re here and really wants to help us.”

Lucas said the venue’s tides were “really tricky” and she might need to learn Portuguese, but added: “I’m looking forward to spending more time here.”

Prior to the trip, Lucas took the 10-time Para-equestrian gold medallist, Lee Pearson out 2.4mR sailing.

The pair also visited the new plaque on Lucas’ gold Portland post box, pictured above She said: “It was the first time I had seen it, the inscription was lovely with the added touch it had been written in Braille underneath. I felt rather emotional.”