Derry set to host major disabled sailing event

 

Foyle Sailability Centre is set to become the location for one of Northern Ireland’s largest disabled sailing competitions. 

On 7 September, over 60 boaters of all abilities will gather at The River Foyle for a day of fun-filled racing. 

This is the last competition in a series of events called the tri-racing series, following similar events in Lough Erne and Belfast Lough.

Sailability is an initiative from the Royal Yachting Association which allows people of all abilities to get out on the water and experience the sensation of sailing. The competitors at this regatta will have a wide range of physical or mental disabilities but with the help of specially adapted boats, they manage to take part in the sport they love. 

While the racing will be competitive, the primary focus of the day will be enjoyment and there is an undeniable sense of community between competitors. 

Sailability competitor, Matthew Daly said: “The best way to describe sailing is freedom- I don’t really know any other way to put it.

“It’s just so easy to get along with people. Everyone knows everyone- it’s like a big family.”

The Chair of Foyle Sailability, Garry Crothers, shares this deep passion. A motorcycle accident left him without a left arm, yet he persisted in life and has now completed two sailing crossings of the Atlantic Ocean on a small boat. 

Garry said: “Sailability has been a lifesaver for me. Whenever I became disabled the physical aspect was hard enough, but the mental aspect was ten times harder. 

“It’s not just about the sailing, there’s a huge social element to it as well. We’ve got people involved that have no interest in sailing at all but they enjoy fixing engines or helping with trailers. 

“Whenever you’re disabled, it can be a very isolated place, so the social aspect is very important.”

The event is free, so the Royal Yachting Association are encouraging anyone to give it a go.