Kinsale rows in behind children with disabilities

12th August 2009

Ireland’s first summer sailing programme organised specifically for children with disabilities is going at full force in Kinsale Yacht Club. It is organised by the Irish Disabled Sailing Association in conjunction with Kinsale Yacht Club.

The programme is attracting a lot of attention both locally and nationally. There are smaller programmes starting in Galway and Dún Laoghaire with other clubs earmarked nationally. The ISDA intend to have a vibrant children’s programme all over Ireland in the coming years.

The programme is currently offering weekly Saturday sailing sessions, in Kinsale harbour, where up to twenty-five children and teenagers receive coaching from qualified instructors. There are two safety ribs on the water at all times and the children also enjoy time in these.

Twelve children took part in what was Ireland’s first full, five day, summer sailing camp in the access class. “He was exhausted but so happy after his day on the water” said one Mum. “We never thought that it would be possible but everyone helps out”.

The programme relies heavily on a spirit of volunteerism within the club. Strong links are already being forged between the various classes in the club as its willing members get involved with the access dinghy sailors.

IDSA chairperson Alison Ryan says “It’s thanks to the positive attitude, excellent facilities and practical support of the yacht club that things are going so well for the children. Local Lions clubs and businesses have also helped with financial aid and donations of equipment.”

The official launch of the programme will take place during an action packed, family friendly day in Kinsale Yacht Club on 29th August 2009. The committee and volunteers aim to have eleven accessible boats available on the day to anyone who would like to try sailing. Well-known sailor Paul Ryan will be on hand to encourage any children who might like to come along on the day. Paul, who is a Paralympic sailor, is hoping that he might find a few young sailors who will develop a life long love of the sport.

The official launch is 29th August.

Event timetable :

10.00   Rigging
10.30   Launch of boats sailed by sailors with disabilities in KYC (Access dinghies, Firefly, Squibs, Sonars and Cruisers)
11.00   Kids Access Dinghy Race
12.00   Return to Club
12.15   De-rigging
12.30   Official launch of programme
13.00   Barbeque

We will have the assistance of Kinsale Lifeboat and an Irish Naval ship on the day. For more information on the Irish Disable Sailing Association, click here

Published in News Update

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