Issue date
On 9- 10 November 2013 a keen group of first time sailors descended on Mount Pleasant Yacht Club for two days of sailing. Supported by the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation and Yachting New Zealand, 15 physically disabled people took their turn using an adaptive Hansa 2.3 dinghy on loan from Otago Yacht Club. In Otago, this boat enables an inclusive sailing programme also organized
This was the first weekend to trial out the venue and gauge community interest before endeavouring to start an inclusive programme for sailors of all abilities in the region.
Volunteers of all ages turned up to support the initiative instigated by club member Brian Smith, with two in the safety boat at all times and one in the sail boat helping the first timers get under sail. The club was buzzing with both junior learn to sail (in optimists) and adult learn to sail (in lasers) under-way, hopefully the Hansa 2.3 or other adaptive equipment will become part of the club’s offerings.
All signs point toward it happening soon, if you are interested in supporting or taking part yourself, please contact Brian Smith of MPYC, brian21x@xtra.co.nz or Halberg Disability Sport Foundation’s local Sport Advisor, Justin Muschamp justin@halberg.co.nz
