Supported sailing
Supported Sailing
This year our Sailability section has been putting on Supported Sailing, getting all ages out in the Cobles and Hansas with the help of volunteers. These have taken place six times this year on 6th May, 3rd June, 17th June, 1st July, 22nd July and 19th August.
Sailability are always looking for volunteers to expand activities, training can be provided so please contact them at sailability@ncsc.org.uk if you can spare some time. Most users need help rigging the Hansas and launching them and there is a need for safety cover when they are in use (as with all club boats) we have two Hansas (these can be used by wheelchair users) they steer using a stick and can be reefed, even whilst sailing. They take up to two people.
Tuesday – 19th August 2025
Tuesday 19th August and a good breeze blowing down the lake, 5 boats on the water and our sailors assembled.
Our regular 2 adult sailors were off in our 2 Hansa 303s. Into the extra Hansa steps Beth, a young woman on the autistic spectrum. Cautiously – she has never been in a dinghy before but she has been in a narrow boat (Tinker’s Leen) so she does know her right from her left and first time out she is able to ‘steer’ the Hansa encouraged by one of our experienced. volunteers. She said sailing gave her an adrenaline rush and she loved it.
Meanwhile in the Cobles, going well in the brisk breeze, are 3 young adults with Down Syndrome and their PAs. It is their first experience in a boat.
Helen Coppins who coordinates activities for Nottinghamshire Down Syndrome Group thanked us ‘ for the opportunity yesterday. Matt especially loved the experience. I loved it too.’
Thanks are due to the Hansa Association for the loan of an extra Hansa 303 which helped us achieve this.
Main thanks must go to the excellent team of capable volunteers who enable a range of people to get out on the water safely and very enjoyably.
A truly inclusive event.
Anne Clark – Sailability Co-ordinator
Some photos from last week and earlier in the season.
