From the Boathouse: ‘Sail for the Blind and Visually Impaired’ slated for Saturday
Ahoy!
An annual superb sailing event is closing in fast on my radar, and it is zeroing in at the American Legion Post 291. The post and the American Legion Yacht Club plan to host the 27th annual “Sail for the Blind and Visually Impaired” on Saturday.
The event is sponsored by the Women’s Sailing Assn. – Orange County (WSA-OC). More than 200 blind and visually impaired adults, along with their escorts, will enjoy sailing and relaxing at the post during this daylong event.
Many guest sailors return year after year, and they will be able to help steer the boats, adjust sheet and halyard lines while feeling the sensations of wind and motion. The crews will sail the boats throughout Newport Harbor, and some skippers will take the vessels offshore onto the Pacific Ocean (conditions permitting).
“It is amazing to watch how over a hundred volunteers from various organizations come together each year to provide this wonderful experience for the visually impaired in our community, especially when you consider this is the 27th year for this event,” said Wayne Wallace, WSA-OC’s Sail for the Blind and Visually Impaired Committee chairman.
However, it might be blowing this weekend with winds gusting to 20 knots and seas building with a mixed swell of 3 feet to 5 feet.
However, the swell can drop, and at least a few sailboats might be able to punch out in the ocean for a little fun. Nevertheless, we are fortunate that Newport is a large harbor that provides protected, enjoyable sailing.
The organizers have not forgotten about the accompanying guide dogs either, as a play yard will be set up for the dogs while their owners are sailing. Additionally, the volunteers will provide breakfast, lunch and entertainment.
“This is my very favorite day of the year, even above Christmas!” said Seal Beach Lions Club Vice Chair Shani-Rae Erickson. “I adore the look of joy on the faces of old friends I have made throughout the years, as well as all the new folks joining for the very first time. There is nothing like it!”
I tip my captain’s hat to the approximately 45 skippers who volunteer with their boats to make this on the water experience happen. I also tip my hat to the couple of hundred volunteers from the community, including members of other yacht clubs, Seal Beach Lions Club, Navy Sea Cadets, Harbor Patrol Explorer Scouts and the dozens of WSA-OC and American Legion volunteers.
“Helping others enjoy a memorable experience on the water is what it is all about,” said Seal Beach Lions’ Vice Chair Knute Fredholm. “We serve!”
You can help with the Sail for the Blind and Visually Impaired, either as a volunteer or with a tax-deductible donation, by going to www.wsaoc.org, www.facebook.com/wsaoc or by emailing info@wsaoc.org.
Boat skippers who want to volunteer this or next year can email svi@alyc.com. Anyone else interested in volunteering should email joanyb@alyc.com.
A look at the WSA-OC
Tip of the week: Did you know that WSA-OC was once known as WORSA, the Women’s Ocean Racing Sailing Assn., which was founded in 1979?
Valerie Rhodes, a WSA-OC Commodore, emailed me that they are a coed group dedicated to supporting women sailors throughout Orange County. The group’s mission includes a focus on serving the community through sailing-related activities, racing and other fun on-the-water events.
Members also provide a paramount leadership role in the planning of the Southern California Yachting Assn.-sponsored Women’s Sailing Convention, which is held every February at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club.
Boat safe, boat smart and wear your life jacket. Lastly, please boat responsibly. I cannot emphasize enough to look behind you before you turn your vessel.
Safe Voyages!
MIKE WHITEHEAD is a boating columnist for the Daily Pilot. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to mike@boathousetv.com or go to boathousetv.com.