ACTIVITIES
PROGRAM
Recreational sailing on the "GORDON MCRAE" sailboat
This Freedom Independence model 20-foot sailboat has been specifically
designed for the use of disabled persons. Our boat sails from the
Shediac Municipal Marina every day from mid-June through to the
end of August. Our vessel is available, by appointment, to take
disabled persons, their friends and families for a one and one-half cruise
on Shediac Bay. There is always two experienced Sailing Partners in
charge of each outing. Clients are also encouraged to take an active
role in handling the boat. Our Sailing Partners are always pleased
to offer basic sailing instruction for first timers. For details on the GORDON MCRAE, go here.
Learn to sail on the "MICHAEL DUNN" sailboat
This 16-foot Martin was conceived as a "single-handed, one-design"
racer, with a versatility that allows sailors with disabilities
to sail and compete equally with their able-bodied counterparts. For details on the MICHAEL DUNN, click here.
Season & hours of Operation
From Moonday, June 25 to Friday, August 31 for the 2012 season. Sailing appointments are available
between the hours of 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM seven days a week.
For
sailing appointments:
Contact Able Sail at 506 533-9750. This number is not active off-season,
during which period you may contact us by
email at shediac@ablesail.ca
Safety
When you come sailing with us, dress in layers so that you can adjust
your clothing to the weather. Every person on board must wear a
personal flotation device (PFD.) which will be provided by Able Sail. Our employees and volunteers are
experienced sailors who have been chosen for their desire and ability
to help you enjoy safe sailing.
Our Standard Operating Procedure defines many situations which may
require postponement or cancellation of an outing. For example,
weather conditions - we do not set sail in wind speeds greater than
20 knots (37 km/h) or if there is a threat of lightning. It is
important that clients telephone our office in order to confirm
that conditions are suitable.
OTHER ACTIVITIES (2012)
MAY 19TH
Shediac Building Suppiles Fundraiser
A percentage of the sales occuring at the RONA store on Pointe-du-Chêne road will be donated to Able Sail. One of our boats will be on display on site. Weather permitting, there will be a BBQ between 11AM and 2PM.
JULY 7TH TO 13TH
Shediac Centennial Cup
The Shediac Bay Yacht Racing Association will host a series of races that will determine the winners of the Centennial Cup and the Lobster Festival Cup. See the SBYRA site at www.sbyra.ca for dates. There will be associated fundraising activities on behalf off Able Sail.
AUGUST 4TH & 5TH
N.B. Circuit Small Boat Regatta
The Shediac Sailing School will host the 13th Annual Regatta that forms part of the New Brunswick Circuit of small boat regattas. Able Sail will be one of the hosting partners. The Regatta will be taking place out of the Shediac Bay Marina.
AUGUST 18TH
The Annual Memorial Gordon McRae Race
Since 1999, Able Sail/Handi-Voile has organized a race in memory of Gordon McRae, the first disabled person to benefit from the recreational sailing program. This is a white sail race with boats from both the Pointe-du-Chêne Yacht Club and the Shediac Bay Marina participating.
This year, the 14th annual race is scheduled for Saturday, August 18th.
In 2011, twenty two boats participated. See the race results here.
ANNUAL BIG BREAKFAST
Every year, Able Sail/Handi-Voile hosts a breakfast at the Pointe-du-Chêne Yacht Club. This is a major fundraising event that allows for the raising of significant funds to support its sailing program.
This year the breakfast will be held on the morning of Saturday, August 18th. Last year, approximately 300 meals were served and an amount of approximately $9,000.00 was raised thanks to the generous support of individuals and sponsors..