Adapted Sailing Program Scheduled group to sail in conjunction with Nyack Boat Club

May 18, 2008

The Nyack Boat Club, sponsors of the annual Tappan Zee Regatta, will be hosting the third annual Adapted Sailing program, in conjunction with Helen Hayes Hospital, this May. Members of adapted sailing teams, along with Boat Club members and therapists from the leading physical rehabilitation Hospital, will be mentoring individuals with physical disabilities on how to sail using adaptive boats and equipment.

The program kicks off with an Introduction to Sailing Workshop on Thursday, May 8, from 6:00 – 7:30 pm at the Nyack Boat Club in Nyack. This will be followed by a day of Adapted Sailing on the Hudson River on Friday, May 16 from 11:30 am to 6:30 p.m. at the club in Nyack, Rockland County. The day will kick off with a meet the sailors lunch and panel discussion on adaptive sailing. From there, the group will head down to the Boat Club docks on the Hudson River to get on board the specially adapted sonar boats. Adaptive sailing skills and techniques will be demonstrated to individuals with physical disabilities who are new to the sport. Participants are welcome to stay for an informal reception and roundtable discussion on opportunities in adapted sailing.

On Saturday, May 17, the Boat Club will host the Tappan Zee Regatta. Competitors of all abilities, including the Paralympic teams, will be participating in the event. Spectator boats will be available for individuals of all abilities to get out on the water and view the Regatta.

The Workshop, day of sailing and spectator opportunity are all free of charge. Dinner following the Regatta, which will take place at 6:00 pm on May 17, is $15. For additional information, contact 845-786-4950.