disabled sailing

Qingdao, China - Over the last two weeks, the 2008 Beijing Paralympic games have been under way, and in the waters of Qingdao, the Paralympic sailors took to their boats and sailed like the world-class athletes they are.  Like any other Olympian, these competitors have trained and sacrificed and made their way to this competition through blood, sweat, sheer will and the help of family, friends and supporters.  Though they may face a few more challenges than others, their ability to overcome them is both the mark of a true champion, and to these folks, just part of the game.

We have received news from our YachtPal Hilary Lister that she has been forced to call an end to her record breaking attempt to sail around the Isle of Britain. Her journey failed not because of Hilary's will, physical handicap, or sailing abilities - all of which she proved were well matched for the boat and voyage - but because of the same types of problems that face every sailor: Mechanical breakdowns, and bad weather.

In a few weeks, a second group of world-class athletes will take to the Olympic venues in Beijing, and the water at Qingdao, to compete in the 2008 Paralymic games.  Only accepted as a Paralympic medal sport since the 2000 games, sailing has bounded onto the scene with a record total of 80 competitors sailing for 25 countries this year.  The rest of the world is learning what we all know:  These folks can out-sail most 'Able Hands' any day!

Newport, Rhode Island – Corporate executives from the financial and legal world got wet and wild this past weekend to raise funds for sailors with disabilities during the 17th annual Wall Street Corporate Challenge sailing regatta. The 'suits' enjoyed two high-spirited days of boat racing aboard legendary America’s Cup yachts like American Eagle, Enterprise, Weatherly and Nefertiti.

Rye, New York - Dozens of sailors from all around the United States and Canada gathered over the last few days for the U.S. Disabled Sailing Championship in Rye, New York. Participants included sailors who are quadriplegic, paraplegic, and amputees, as well as people with disabilities related to cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, polio and ALS. A few of the participants of this event will be going on to compete in the Paralympic Games in Qingdao China in September, alongside the US Olympic sailing team.