PORTLAND’S Megan Pascoe has not given up on competing in next year’s Paralympic Games despite suffering a huge blow in her bid to get to Rio.

It was announced yesterday that Pascoe had missed out on selection in the 2.4mR class, with the British Paralympic Association choosing London 2012 gold medallist Helena Lucas instead.

Lucas will defend her title in Brazil after becoming the first official member of either ParalympicsGB or Team GB.

Pascoe, who was also overlooked for the Paralympics on home waters three years ago, told Echosport she was frustrated at the decision, but revealed she could still make it to Brazil.

The 28-year-old is planning to sail with Will Street in the SKUD class in a bid to qualify.

Speaking about missing out to Lucas, she said: “The one thing about this sport is that you are at the mercy of the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) as they make the decision.

"But you know that when you get into the sport and at this level of competition you never really know what’s going to happen.

“It’s very disappointing not to be selected because I think I’m still ranked number one in the world in the 2.4mR.

"Not to be selected is a little bit difficult to take. It’s frustrating because I think I’ve got a lot left to give in the time leading up to Rio.”

Commenting on linking up with Street, she added: “We haven’t sailed together before but we are going to see how it goes.

“The places for the SKUD and Sonar are still up for grabs but we will be up against a team that won bronze in London and are four-time world champions.

“Me and Will are going to be competing at the EUROSAF event in Garda next week, so hopefully we can learn quickly.”