The Challenger Trimaran is a 15ft boat; designed specifically to enable disabled people to sail. Because the sailor sits in the middle and the boat has two out-riggers it is incredibly stable and doesn't involve any shifting of weight to keep the boat upright.
The Challenger Class is a single-handed trimaran with one-design features, which is sailed and raced throughout the UK. The Class was designed by noted multihull designer Rod McAlpine Downie, specifically to allow those with disabilities to sail and race independently and on equal terms with able-bodied sailors.With a Portsmouth Handicap of 1200 the Challenger is competitive in most club racing fleets and, because it has the sailing characteristics of a “monohull fitted with outriggers” it fits easily into the slow handicap, rather than the catamaran, fleet.Whilst slower to tack than a monohull, the Challenger is suitable for lakes as small as 50 acres and is a very safe, seaworthy boat. The fact that it does not heel over or capsize makes it particularly suitable for those with poor upper body strength and balance.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
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The Disabled Sailing Association of Ontario (DSAO) is dedicated to providing people living with a disability the opportunity to learn about and enjoy sailing. DSAO is a non-profit charitable organization founded, organised and run by people with disabilities and is uniquely attuned to the needs and desires of its participants.
DSAO's mission:
•To provide sailing opportunities for Ontarians regardless of disabilities or age.
•To provide unique, enjoyable experiences for its participants which include opportunities for social, recreational, rehabilitative and competitive activities.
•To build confidence, self-esteem and enhance independence for people with mobility or other impairments.
•To facilitate integration of disabled and able-bodied recreation and competition.
The success of sailing as a recreational and rehabilitation program for the disabled is evident in both the growing numbers of people with disabilities that participate in these programs, and in the enthusiastic support that DSA-Ontario has already received from the disabled communities, organizations and funding agencies. Supporters are inspired by the realization that the lakes and oceans of Canada serve as a great healer and equalizer – people with mobility impairments can leave their wheelchairs (and their disabilities) behind, and enjoy the independence and freedom that one experiences when wind, sun and spray join forces to make a perfect sailing day.
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