Several special guests attended the practice regatta including three representatives from Indiana Special Olympics including Jeff Mohler, Vice President of Programs. John Winninger an instructor for the Indiana University Sailing Club served as the Race Chairperson. The event was held at the beautiful park at the Paynetown recreation area, where attendees arrived in the morning to soak up the sun and chat before the practice race. The Race Chairperson had sailed out earlier to mark the course with the race buoys. More than 15 participants gathered around to listen to Executive Director George Saidah discuss some basic sailing rules and safety procedures. The race chairperson then identified the course layout and race rules with the eager crewmembers and our volunteer skippers. The crews were divided among the three volunteer boats and set out to the race course. Unfortunately, although the weather was sunny and warm, there was little wind, and the boats had to motor. It was great practice, though, and a highlight of the day was the flyover and water landing of a sea plane owned by a local resident of Monroe County.
After completing the course, volunteers, crew and family members enjoyed a cookout and time to socialize. Special needs participants were recognized by their skippers with special personalized sailing certificates commemorating their regatta participation along with Heart of Sailing’s crew medal. Additional ribbons were also given to recognize the special participation in the regatta and for those crew members who displayed exceptional team work or team spirit. |
Heart of Sailing