Issue date
Following the 2013 Access Class Nationals, and 3rd Kiwi Cup, Auckland's Royal Akarana Yacht Club hosted the Kiwi Ability Regatta. Kiwi Ability was the first event of its kind in New Zealand, being a regatta for sailors with Intellectual disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury, and on the Autism Spectrum.
Twelve sailors in two person crews entered to compete across the two divisions (supported and fully ID/ABI/AS) in Access 303 dinghies. The organizers were thrilled to welcome entries from two Australian Special Olympic teams – Alister and Alyse, Mary and Melissa.
Tuesday 30th January offered the opportunity for sailors to participate in a practice session in the racing area just east of Auckland Port. Competitors became friends in the evening with an ‘Auckland Experience’ visiting the Sky Tower, enjoying Fish and Chips at the fish market, and a wander through the Viaduct. Wednesday began with a briefing from race officer and YNZ Regional Support Officer Hamish Hey, and Race 1 started on time at 11:00am. Four races were scheduled and completed, with conditions of a steady 12-15 knot easterly and a typical Hauraki Gulf chop. Racing was close, and at prize giving 1st place in both divisions was awarded to Hawkes Bay teams, Brothers Colin and Bevan Beattie, and, Robbie Love and Katy Kenah (who had just days before taken the 2013 Access 303 National Championship Title).
The youngest competitor Matthew Beardsworth, joined experienced Access Liberty sailor John Toole (both from Auckland), and summed up his first racing experience “The wind was strong and the sea really choppy. I was soaked to the skin by the time I got back to the marina, but I had a fantastic time.”
All competitors had learnt to sail through Sailability groups. Sailability groups around NZ use ‘Access Dinghies’. The dinghies adaptable seating and controls, combined with heavily weighted centreboards making the boats virtually impossible to capsize, make sailing accessible and safe for all regardless of physical ability. The skills and experience of instructors and volunteers supports those with a sensory or intellectual disability who may need a little more time and understanding of how they learn, in order to achieve their goals. Sailing provides a safe and supported environment for developing motor skills, decision making skills, confidence and pride in achievement, as well as opportunity for making friends. For some it is about learning to race and competing, but for many it is simply the freedom, independence and experience of being on the water that appeals.
Sailability exists around New Zealand, and aims to make sailing accessible to all regardless of ability. To find your nearest Sailability group in New Zealand, and have a go, visit the Sailors with a Disability area of the YNZ Website or call Kristine Lederis, Disabled Sailing Coordinator, at Yachting New Zealand on 09 361 4023.
