Dart Sailability reflects on a successful year

DART Sailability, the Dartmouth-based charity that helps disabled people take to the water, is reflecting on a successful year. Principal and senior instructor Mark Farries said: “We had some of our best weather for five years so everyone enjoyed good sailing. “I would like to thank all the volunteers on the shore, the pontoon and the water who have given up so much time and always done so with a smile.” Sailing takes place at Noss Marina twice a week between May and September and 101 disabled sailors took part last season. Two schools, Oakland Park in Dawlish and Bidwell Brook in Dartington, have continued to bring disabled students aged 14 to 18 years. The Dart Harbour Authority awarded Sailability the Dart Harbour Senior Award for exceptional and inspiring work with young people on the river, saying: “The organisation meets the needs of so many disadvantaged people in such a fun way.” Chairman Robert Boyd said: “We greatly appreciate their kind donation of £500.” Other activities during the year included racing the group’s 23ft yacht Sonar of Dart in the RDYC Wednesday evening series and the Dartmouth Regatta. Sailing with different, mixed-ability crews, they acquitted themselves very well, finishing fourth overall in the keelboat series in the regatta. During the regatta, the group hosted a visit from Geoff Holt and his catamaran which can carry disabled sailors including several in wheelchairs. A number of members went out for a high-speed trip in the bay which was much enjoyed. Barry Cooper and a team from Dart Sailability took part in the Eddystone charity race and raised £1,077 for the group. Another team provided safety boat cover for the Totnes Longbow canoe races and a generous donation was received from Totnes Rotary Club in gratitude. Mr Boyd said: “As a disabled sailor and the group’s chairman I would like to thank everyone for making Dart Sailability such a delightful organisation to be a member of. It provides support, friendship, recreational and competitive sailing which improves the condition of our lives. “We are indebted to all our volunteers, sponsors and fundraisers who make this possible.” All the boats are currently out of the water undergoing their annual refit, which is being undertaken by the group’s volunteers. The sailing season will start again in May.