HYANNIS – The Hyannis Yacht Club has donated a J/22 sailboat from its fleet to Sail Cape Cod Community Sailing for the benefit of its ‘SeaLegs’ Adaptive Sailing Program.
The 22’ keelboat, named ‘Sneakers’, was donated by the club in memory of the late Donald ‘ Rob’ Tucker, who had owned and sailed ‘Sneakers’ for years.
Tucker was also a past Commodore of Hyannis Yacht Club and a long-standing member.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Sail Cape Cod in expanding its adaptive fleet with this sailboat, while at the same time honoring Rob’s memory in such a special way”, stated HYC Commodore Victor Tagliaferro. “Rob’s past involvement with Special Olympics makes this even more significant because Sail Cape Cod works closely with individuals with developmental, cognitive and intellectual challenges through its programs”.
‘Sneakers’ will be an addition to the group’s adaptive and outreach programs in giving Sail Cape Cod more flexibility in their program offerings.
The addition to the adaptive sailing program coincides with the 26th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act, which was passed on July 26, 1990.
Laurel Labdon is a disabled sailor and Sail Cape Cod’s Honorary Chair for its ‘SeaLegs’ program.
“Sailing is a sport that can, and should, be accessible to all…without limitation,” said Labdon. “This sailboat will enable even more people with physical or intellectual challenges to gain access to sailing who might not otherwise be able to enjoy the therapeutic and recreational benefits that this activity provides.”
Donations for the renovations and adaptions to ‘Sneakers’ and the ‘SeaLegs’ Program are welcome and can be made online at SailCapeCod.org
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