DSA
PROGRAMS
The Disabled Sailing Association (DSA) strives
to increase the independence, motivation and quality of life as
well as offer physical fitness opportunities for people with significant
physical disabilities. DSA's sailing operations are based at Jericho
Sailing Centre. Jericho Sailing Centre houses the DSA offices
as well as the equipment room, fondly called referred to as “The
Cage.”
Our core program is outfitted for a variety
of disabilities and sailing skill levels. With the Sip n' Puff
control system and the Martin 16 sailboat even high quadriplegics--those
with no movement below the neck--can sail (link of equipment page).
Currently DSA has over 300 participants and
80 volunteers.
Core Program
We provide opportunities for recreational and competitive sailing
as well as instruction for first-time sailors. DSA' sailing season
runs from June through August. Despite the schedule sailors are
encouraged to come at any time and usually our staff can find
an available sailboat on short notice.
Racing and Regattas
The Integration Regatta
The annual Integration
Regatta was inaugurated in 1999, when sailors with a disability
issued a challenge. In this event, DSA's sailors compete head-on
with their able-bodied competitors representing yacht clubs and
boating organizations from around the Lower Mainland.
  Learn
more
New Beginnings Regatta
The New
Beginnings Regatta was first introduced in the summer of 2002.
The purpose of this two-day event is to introduce children and
adults with disabilities to sailing for the first time.
Learn
more
DSA Cascadia Regatta
The DSA Cascadia Regatta
will be held at the Jericho Sailing Centre on English Bay in Vancouver,
British Columbia. The event is organized by the Disabled Sailing
Association, Vancouver Chapter, and the Jericho Sailing Centre.
Learn
more
The Mobility Cup
The Mobility Cup, first
held in Vancouver in 1991, has become the national open regatta
for sailors with a disability. This race series is a world-class
event and attracts competitors and spectators from throughout
North America and around the world.
Mobility Cup 2007 is in Halifax Monday August 27, 2007 to Friday,
August 31, 2007. Sail Able Nova Scotia and Dartmouth Yacht Club
host the event
Learn
more
Children’s Program
Children’s Days
The DSA Children’s Program currently has approximately 60
members. In addition to regular sailing days, children are invited
to take part in special Kid's Days at Jericho every summer. Kids
sail, take part in games and face painting, and enjoy a barbecue
with friends and family members.
Kids' Adventure Days
This program began in 2001. With the help of the BC Mobility Opportunities
Society (BCMOS), this adventure goes from the “woods to
the waves.” Children with disabilities from around the Lower
Mainland, are transported to BCMOS’ headquarters in Pacific
Spirit Regional Park. The day is divided to include hiking in
the park, with some kids using BCMOS’ TrailRiders and others
walking, a barbecue lunch and sailing at Jericho.
Booking Procedures
Booking for regular sails as well as race and regatta participation
and special training courses can be made by phone (604-222-3003)
or by email (dsasummer@disbailityfoundation.org).
Our summer offices are open from June through August.
During the off season please contact DSA's head office (604-214-0684).
Transfer of our participants into the Martin
16 sailboats are done either manually or by through the aid of
an electric transfer lift installed at Jericho Sailing Centre.
Particulars:
- Sailing bookings are offered seven times
a day.
- Sails can be booked five days a week. Some
weekends are reserved for regattas and racing.
- Up to three sails can be booked at any one
time.
- You must pay your Disabled Sailing Membership
($10) first time you sail.
- If you plan on sailing more than four times
you must purchase a Jericho membership.
- Cost:
- Annual Membership - $10
(includes introductory sail for first-time sailors
only)
- Individual Sails - $10
- Jericho Sailing membership - $65
- Junior membership - $35
- Essential items to bring when going on a
sail:
Living in Vancouver, we can never predict the weather! We encourage
you to be prepared for anything when going out for a sailing
session.
It is a good idea to bring:
- Fleece sweatshirt
- Light sweater*
- Rain gear (we will provide you with a wet suit if needed)
- Sunhat*
- Gloves
- Windbreaker
- Waterproof jacket
(such as ones made by Tiga or MEC, for example)
- Suntan lotion
- Sunglasses
- Towel (not needed, but helpful)
*Highly recommended
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