Disabled Sailing
Disabled sailing programs are dedicated to people physically challenged that provide great experiences with the participation to competitions, rehabilitation activities and recreational-social meetings. Presently, more and more people with mobility or other impairments are eager to take part to disabled sailing classes: such programs make great chances for them to leave the wheelchairs behind and enjoy freedom, the sun, the wind and the water. The disabled sailing skill levels vary depending on the specificity of the physical condition. Most of the instruction and the public info part are covered by volunteers who have joined one disabled sailing association or another.
Many disabled sailing organizations have people with disabilities as founders; they are the ones to organize and run such non-profit charitable programs that care for the less fortunate members of the society. Whether recreational or competition-oriented, disabled sailing activities truly make a difference in terms of accessibility and easy ways to improve life quality. Most associations require a fee for the membership that could vary between $20 and $100 or even more, depending on what they offer and for what time period the membership is granted. When seen in perspective, money doesn't mean anything under the circumstances.
For the disabled, sailing could very well be the only chance to experience nature in its wilderness, and in many parts of the globe, such people cannot follow their dream because of the lack of funds. Why is sailing so important? It has been noticed that many peoples with physical disabilities have developed incredible crisis management skills, not to mention the enhancement of self-confidence and self-limits. Positive changes in life have also been associated with disabled sailing, hence, this kind of programs should receive all the support, both moral and financial, from the community and the government.
In terms of boat models appropriate for disabled sailing, The Martin 16 passes all the tests. It has definitely undergone improvements, and it can now be maneuvered by a single person in a seated forward position. Unlike other boats, this model allows for another person: trainer or companion to seat inside. The steering device is a simple joystick and the sail control is basic so that even people with severe disabilities could use it. Moreover, this disabled sailing boat is unsinkable thanks to the many compartments additional to the breath-operated systems. The rudder, the bilge pump and the sheets on the boat are automated and highly easy to use.