Galway Bay Sailing Club, in conjunction with the Irish Disabled Sailing Association, will host a 'Come and Try It Day' at the club in Renville, Oranmore on Sunday 4 May.

Gary Allen with The Galway Sailing Clubs new Challenger a Sailing boat specifically designed for people with disabilities. Gary has just recieved his ISA small boat Sailing Scheme certificate from PJ Meally and Richard Hayes, Sailing Instructors. Photo:Andrew Downes.

According to a spokesperson for the club, the purpose of the day is to offer people with physical disabilities the opportunity to take to the water in specifically adapted boats. The IDSA will bring three adapted boats to Renville on 4 May. With instructors and experienced sailors on hand the participants will be "shown the ropes" and experience the thrills and spills of sailing. Organisers hope that some of the participants will decide that sailing is for them and take it up as a sport and hobby.

Galway Bay Sailing Club already adapted a boat and is hoping to build on its fleet to meet the growth in sailing for people with physical disabilities.

The IDSA was established in the early 1980s to introduce and encourage people of all ages with physical disability to take up sailing. Funded by the Irish Sailing Association, twenty years later, IDSA members are involved at all levels of the sport, from regular club racing, through international championships, to successful Paralympic campaigns.

The 'Come and Try It Day' could be the first step for future Paralympic sailors from Galway, say organizers.

Places are limited so, although there is no charge, it is necessary to book a slot with Alison Ryan of the IDSA. Alison will also provide all participants with a recommended list of clothing and gear. She is contactable at 0874198796 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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