Yacht Competition Racing for the Disabled Takes Off!

Yacht racing, though it may seem like "a breeze" to spectators (to turn a phrase), is really a lot more complicated than it looks. Anyone who's ever been involved in a "backyard regatta" or a world-class yacht race will tell you: This is a sport that requires very savvy technical skills and a strategic mind. Still think anyone can do it? Just ask anyone who's served as a crew member in a yacht-racing adventure catered to the disabled. Here's a guarantee: They'll look at you like you're crazy.

Races are always set along a designated course, and are usually sponsored by a Disabled Sailors association (which can be found in most of our United States and abroad). Usually, men's and women's teams compete separately, and boats can range from Olympic-class dinghies to basic, modern fiberglass-planing dinghies. In fact, this sport has been internationally recognized since 1976, when it was featured in the Montreal Olympics.

As with any sport, volunteers are always needed for upcoming events. For example, the St. Francis Yacht Club will host the upcoming 470 Class North American Races in the San Francisco Bay area in mid- to late August. This race is just one of many taking place all across the United States, solely for disabled racers, and they'll need skippers and deck hands to help get the action going.

Usually, the schedule of events covers completing entry forms, yacht measurement, a festive "opening ceremony," often accompanied with music, light Hor devours and champagne; and on each race day, sailors will enjoy a continental breakfast in the morning and a fun-filled evening of food and drinks following the race.

The Bay Area Association of Disabled Sailors (BAADS), like most, allows every participant to solicit foundation or corporate sponsorships, and again, many positions are available, from one of the most important sailing races Association and the United States 470

And, no matter who wins, the closing ceremonies are nothing to sneeze at. You'll be entertained, wined, and dined while enjoying the sounds of a great jazz or blues band, commemorating the event's end. Another plus is that, for this race and many others throughout the country, you can qualify for an Olympic race ? if you're the lucky winner, that is.

David Dunlap is the owner and founder of Only For Yachts, an online resource for everything related to yachts. Visit http://onlyforyachts.com to get information on yacht charters, yachts for sale and also sign up for the free yachting newsletter.

---

Better Links Directory

Keltic Seafaring

Many academics are unable to handle the possibility of ships... Read More

10 Thoughts On Picking a Cruise Ship Cabin

The best advice is to be informed about cabins and... Read More

At the Boat Ramp

The weekend is finally here. You're all loaded up (well,... Read More

Yacht and Ship Registration in the Isle of Man

The maritime history of the Isle of Man dates from... Read More

Australia Cruise Expert Guide

Australia is a country of amazing diversity and awe- inspiring... Read More

Hydrofoils as Strike Vehicles on Water; Fast, Safe, Smart

High Speed boat-car, Hydrofoil. Hey slow down so we can... Read More

Alaska By Ship

When was the last time you saw an eagle descend... Read More

Taking a Deaf Cruise

Deaf and hearing impaired individuals are no different from anyone... Read More

The Bottom Line on Yacht & Boat Charters

Whether you are considering your first yacht charter vacation or... Read More

Crystal Cruises: An Air Of Elegance, Presence Of Beauty, And Incredible Spirit Of Adventure

On a Crystal cruise it is not difficult to find... Read More

Cleaning Sails

Washing SailsOften you will see a beautiful sail boat with... Read More

Tips on Marina and Dock Sealing

It is important to follow these procedures when sealing a... Read More

Dining Out At Sea

If eating fine food is your pleasure, a cruise vacation... Read More

Six-Star Cruising on Luxury Cruise Lines

A luxury cruise is just what the name implies, a... Read More

What You Need to Know About Cruise Holidays

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of driving,... Read More

Bingo At Sea?

Under the "G" for Great Holiday. Bingo players can take... Read More

Cunard! The Name Alone Evokes Nostalgia For A More Civilized Era

Traveling famously on a Transatlantic crossing or cruising the world... Read More

Celebrity Alaska Cruises!

Alaska cruises can be the experience of a lifetime. Enhance... Read More

Orient Beach Shore Excursions - Beauty on the Beach!

When cruising to St. Martin (or Sint Maarten), some of... Read More

Holidays Afloat: Your Guide To Yachting Vacations

Yachting vacations used to be the sole preserve of the... Read More

Caribbean Cruise: An Enchanting Experience

A Caribbean cruise is the world's most popular cruise. The... Read More

Why Take a Cruise Vacation?

Have you considered taking a cruise vacation but just aren't... Read More

Those Ellusive Crab and Prawn Traps

If you are a boater, in particular a sea or... Read More

Meguiars RV and Marine Boat Cleaners and Waxes; Test Results

One of the most famous and popular brands in the... Read More

Bermuda Cruise Expert Guide

At just twenty-one square miles in size, the island of... Read More