Tuesday, June 16 & Thursday, June 18, 2026
A great initiative by the FYC Sailing School, this year, we are having people who are paraplegic visiting FYC to try sailing! They will be using the Hansa 2.03 and Hansa 3.03 Able sailboats.
We’ll be using the North Dock and the person hoist crane.
FYC Members are welcome to come out and lend a hand. Contact Sailing School Director Gilles or Able Sail Coordinator Mark Wagter to sign up to volunteer.
*You can use the Contact Form to sign up but be sure to Select Sailing School Director as the Message Recipient by using the Down Arrow.
Below is the Notice which was sent out to various organizations in London about this Event:
We are inviting you to a “Sailing for All” event designed for people with accessibility needs of all kind. Have you ever wanted to try sailing but thought it might be too difficult? It isn’t a problem at all when you have the right tools. So why not give it a try?
We are inviting up to 16 participants spread out over 2 days to come sailing with us in our specialized access sailboats. These sailboats are equipped with weighted keels so they cannot capsize. Our goal is to provide recreation for people with accessible needs and perhaps also begin a training program which will allow interested sailors to develop their skills and be able to sail solo.
There is no cost for this event! Participants will be responsible for their own transportation to Fanshawe Yacht Club but there should be no charge at the Fanshawe Conservation Area tollgate.
This introduction to sailing will be familiarization rides with experienced sailors. Participants will be lifted into the boats using a davit style crane which is attached to the dock. If you have your own sling and it’s OK to get it wet, we highly recommend you bring it with you.
**Please be advised of a possible issue with the ramp that leads down to the dock. The length to level ground is 240 feet and the average slope angle is 5°. There is already a group called Abilities In Motion London who enjoy kayaking on Lake Fanshawe and they are able to wheelchair and electric scooter down the ramp without much trouble. Therefore, we believe it to be manageable. We just wanted to make sure you are aware of it. A photo of the ramp appears below. Of course, assistance in ascending/ descending the ramp will be provided to all who request it.
Details
- Where: Fanshawe Yacht Club and Sailing School located inside the Fanshawe conservation area at 1424 Clarke Rd.
- When: Tuesday, June 16th and Thursday the 18th from 9 to 3:30. Stay for a part of the day or all day – your choice. Wednesday June 17th as a possible rain date.
- Who: Anyone with accessibility needs. Eight participants per day for a total of 16 participants. Unfortunately, quadriplegic needs cannot be accommodated at this time.
Important:
- Please bring your own waterproof sling if you have one. If not, one will be provided.
- Please bring your own lifejacket/ PFD if you own one. If you do not have a lifejacket, one will be provided for you.
- Please indicate in your RSVP if you will be bringing either your own sling or your own PFD/lifejacket.
- There is a wheelchair accessible Porta John at the top of the ramp.
- Ensure you dress for all possible weather! Wear lightweight breathable clothing and footwear that can get wet and dries quickly. Bring sunglasses, wear a hat and bring sunscreen. A rain jacket is also a good idea.
- Ensure you bring enough water and dietary needs with you as there are scant amenities close by.
- When you arrive at the Conservation Area tollgate, let them know that you are there to attend the “Sailing for All” event at the yacht club.
RSVP TO The Sailing School Director in the FYC Contact Form
OR
mwagter (at symbol) execulink.com
call (five one nine) eight five nine – seven six five zero
You must provide an email address and/or phone number where you can be reached so we may contact you in the event of a cancellation or postponement.
RSVP as soon as possible and indicate which day you prefer. Every attempt will be made to schedule you on that day however preferred day may not be available.
Thanks! Hope to see you on the water!
