Testimonials

Melvyn Kinnear, 48, had a serious accident at the age of 17 which left him severely paralysed. He has sailed at the Tideway Centre in London for the past year.

"I wanted to get into something physical – a sport I could really enjoy" Melvyn comments. "As a disabled person I'd always assumed I wouldn't be able to sail – I never thought it would happen. I get a real sense of freedom, movement and excitement on the water, and it's great to learn new skills."

He adds:
"I just want to get as good as I can. I wouldn't have been able to start without RYA Sailability and Tideway. Not only has sailing become affordable and achievable, but there is a real sense of sharing and friendship at the club."

Luke Barbanneau is an 18 year old Cambridge student with cerebral palsy and is now the National Challenger champion.

He comments:
"When I am sailing I love the freedom, speed, adrenaline and the competition. I also love the community spirit and how friendly sailors are, but without a doubt my favourite thing is competing."
Judi Figgures of Grafham Water Sailability commented:

"Finally sailors with disabilities have been allowed to grow up! The SKUD-18 is a fast, challenging boat with a huge sail area. It requires an enormous amount of teamwork and strength – it's really opened up sailing for severely disabled sailors."

John Draper, 62, who has rheumatoid arthritis, went on the RYA Club coaching course at his local club in Oxford to help younger sailors improve their skills. He comments:

"I wasn't sure if I would physically manage certain aspects of the course but I really enjoyed it. The course has given disabled sailors credibility and status within the fleet. I am passionate about Challengers and have already got my first student lined up for training."