Kelowna Hosts Disabled Sailing Championships

The 2005 International Foundation for Disabled Sailing Multihull World Championships received $12,000 from Hosting BC. The event saw 22 athletes, aged 15 to 60, using the Trapseat 16, a sailboat adaptation that allows disabled skippers to enjoy a catamaran sailing experience. Participants from three Canadian provinces and from sailing clubs in the U.S. competed in four days of racing in front of an estimated 100 spectators, with the support of 30 volunteers

Support for the event enabled trapseat modifications for three boats, along with repairs to the Central Okanagan Sailing Association facilities to improve access and visibility for people using wheelchairs. Two sets of trapseats used at the event were sent to Ontario to improve sport opportunities in that province. In addition, organizers have established a Trapseat Legacy which will be used to support and promote sailing activities, with funds expected to be available for use until 2010.

Hosting BC provides BC communities with funding to host national and international sport events. The program is supported by the Province of British Columbia.