Feels Venture Highlighted Plight of Disabled : Blind Sailor Cancels Transatlantic Trip

A man who tried to become the first blind person to sail solo across the Atlantic announced today that he is calling off his trip and doesn’t plan to resume it this year.

“It’s late in the (sailing) season and frankly, money problems, getting the necessary backup equipment means that I don’t think I should try for it in what’s left of the summer,” said Jim Dickson in an interview on ABC’s “Good Morning America.”

Dickson left Portsmouth, R.I., for Plymouth, England on Aug. 4 but was forced to make a detour south to Bermuda when his 36-foot sloop’s satellite navigation system and autopilot broke down on the trip’s fifth day.

The journey was further delayed when Dickson had to ride out rough seas and heavy winds from Tropical Storm Arlene in the yacht, the Eye Opener. He said last week that the Freedom 36-type yacht needed about $12,000 in repairs following the storm.

Dickson said today that although he was calling off his transatlantic sail, he was not disappointed with the outcome of his effort.

“I set out to get the country talking about the appalling conditions and lack of opportunity facing the country’s disabled, and I think I did that far beyond my wildest dreams. And I’ve also had a terrific time on the Freedom 36, which is a wonderfully fast, safe and dry boat,” he said.

The yachtsman has said a solo crossing aided by a talking computer is a vital part of his efforts to challenge prejudice against the handicapped. He had said last week that the onset of the height of the hurricane season might prevent him from completing the sail.

He also said, however, that he would never again attempt a major single-handed sailing trip without reserve autopilot equipment aboard--an item he hadn’t been able to raise money for on his first effort.

He said today he did not know when he would be able to make another attempt.

“That’s really a question of money,” Dickson said. “I’ve been spending for the last three months. I’ve been spending half the time raising money and half the time dealing with the boat.”