Queensland Para Sailing Academy

Accessible high performance sailing options for any level disability

Queensland Para Sailing Academy

Accessible high performance sailing options for any level disability

SKUD 18 WAY OF THE FUTURE

HIGH PERFORMANCE SAILING ABILITY REGARDLESS

Former Paralympic Class SKUD 18 sports boats enable maximum performance safely in open water regattas. Safest sailing available for individuals chasing that challenge regardless of ability. The technology that is on offer means anyone that races these boats has an absolute equal chance in competition. Here at SYC SKUD 18 teams made up of 1 disabled Skipper and 1 non disabled compete across mixed and non mixed inshore division fleet racing. Wednesday twilight racers regularly see 30 boat fleets fight it out for the often elusive bottle of Rum.

The Gear to Support Any Ability

A New Opportunity for Disabled Sailors – Queensland Para Sailing Academy.

Paralympic sailing took a big hit recently when it was dropped from the program for the 2020 Tokyo games due to a lack of countries participating in the event. The World Sailing Federation has gone to extraordinary lengths to start development programs around the world to boost the number of countries with sailing programs in an attempt to see the sport back on the program. WSF has now applied to get sailing reinstated for Paris 2024 and is eagerly awaiting a decision to be announced in January next year. The QPSA has been formed to ensure that Queenslanders are well represented should they be successful.

Currently in Queensland there limited opportunity for people living with a disability to become involved in high performance competitive sailing. The QPSA is the brainchild of Southport Yacht Club (SYC) members Ross Manning and Matt Speakman, both Para Sailors who race their Skud 18 (former Paralympic class boats), with great success, in the SYC inshore fleet races and off the beach dinghies. The purpose of QPSA is to provide a pathway that will allow participants to get the required coaching and access to equipment that will enable them to go from novice right thru to national level contender with the ability necessary to present to the Australian squad when accessible sailing becomes main stream again.

To achieve these lofty goals the QPSA has partnered with Sailability Gold Coast and SYC. Partnering with Sailability gives a great boost to both organisations, all development sailors of the QPSA can qualify for high performance SKUD 18 sailing through verification of boat handling skills through the use of smaller dinghies at Gold Coast Sailability. They are also encouraged to become volunteer members of Sailability and undergo the already existing and well-established sail training program Once these sailors reach an adequate level of proficiency they can easily move into the QPSA elite training program. .

Mixed Fleet Racing

Mixed Fleet racing means our SKUD 18's get to mix it up with many Australian Trailer boat classes including Blazer,Etchells,Elliot,RL, 1/4 Tonner, Melges, Flying fifteen, and many more with a configured yardstic Off the beach dinghies are also available for SKUD racing if you like the thrill of dinghy sailing also in a large variety of mixed fleet racing. .

WILD GOATS AUS064

ROSS MANNING Australian SKUD National Champion 2018 2019.

A Queensland Para Sailing Academy package makes sense because

A Queensland Para Sailing Academy package makes sense for several reasons, especially when considering the unique needs and potential benefits it can offer to individuals with disabilities:

1. Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity: A Para Sailing Academy package in Queensland provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in a sport that might otherwise be inaccessible. It promotes inclusivity and equal access to recreational activities.

2. Skill Development: Sailing is a sport that requires a range of skills, including balance, coordination, teamwork, and problem-solving. A Para Sailing Academy package can help individuals with disabilities develop and enhance these skills, contributing to their personal growth and independence.

3. Physical and Mental Health: Sailing can have therapeutic benefits for individuals with disabilities. It provides physical activity and exposure to the outdoors, which can have positive effects on physical health and mental well-being.

4. Community and Social Interaction: Being part of a Para Sailing Academy in Queensland offers participants the opportunity to engage with a community of like-minded individuals. This social interaction can lead to the formation of friendships and support networks, combating social isolation.

5. Empowerment and Confidence: Learning to sail and mastering a new skill can boost self-esteem and confidence. Participants in a Para Sailing Academy can gain a sense of achievement and empowerment, which can extend to other areas of their lives.

6. Education and Advocacy: The existence of a Para Sailing Academy can serve as an educational platform to raise awareness about the capabilities and potential of individuals with disabilities. It can challenge stereotypes and promote a more inclusive society.

7. Paralympic and Competitive Opportunities: Some individuals with disabilities who discover a passion for sailing through the academy may choose to pursue competitive opportunities, including Paralympic sailing. A Para Sailing Academy can be a stepping stone to higher levels of competition.

8. Tourism and Economic Benefits: Queensland is known for its beautiful coastline and excellent sailing conditions. A Para Sailing Academy can attract participants and tourists to the region, contributing to the local economy and tourism industry.

9. Legislative and Ethical Considerations: Many regions have legal and ethical obligations to provide equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Establishing and funding a Para Sailing Academy aligns with these obligations, ensuring that people with disabilities have access to sporting activities.

10. Quality of Life: Ultimately, a Queensland Para Sailing Academy package can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. It offers them a chance to enjoy a fulfilling recreational activity, engage with a supportive community, and develop valuable skills that can enhance their overall well-being

In conclusion, a Queensland Para Sailing Academy package makes sense because it aligns with principles of inclusivity, equal opportunity, skill development, and overall well-being for individuals with disabilities. It also has the potential to positively impact the broader community, economically and socially, while raising awareness about the abilities of people with disabilities.