Rutland Sailability
Contact WebMaster Copyright Charitable Status Version 3.0 Updated 4 November 2013
Latest News
Thanks to the generosity of Rutland Sailability member, Chris Gant, a brand new Access 303W has joined the fleet. A launch ceremony was held on May 23rd at which Chris formally handed over the boat and some traditional sparkling wine was poured over the bow.
Chris has named the boat “Endeavour” as a fitting tribute to describe the commitment, effort and achievement associated with the disabled sailors who enjoy their time on Rutland Water.
He joined the club two years ago and speaks highly of the amazing welcome he received as a new sailor. He says that with the new friendships he has formed and the time and dedication of those committed to helping people with disabilities get onto the water, Thursday sailing day is now probably his best day of the week.
He was new to sailing when he joined but is now a convert and can’t wait to get out whenever he can. He needs to sail with an experienced crew and that was how he realised how important it was that the club has sufficient two seater boats so that people like him not only can learn to sail, but can continue sailing as their experience builds up.
Chris explained, “I felt I wanted to give something back in recognition of the joy I experience on the water, and the opportunity to donate a brand new boat has given me a great deal of satisfaction and happiness. The boat is for everyone in the Club to sail, and I look forward to my first sail when the weather improves!”
The last sentence is poignant; the plan was for Chris to take the first sail in the new boat immediately after the official launch, but the weather was totally unsuitable, so that pleasure will have to wait until we have better conditions, hopefully in the coming weeks.
In recognition of Chris’s generosity, the boat is marked “Chris G”, on the stern quarter.
Further photographs are available in the Photo Gallery
Chris Hands over Endeavour’s Paperwork to
Martin Sutcliffe
Endeavour is Launched with the
Traditional Bottle of Bubbly
Update!
Since the day of the launch the new boat has been on the water several times and Chris has had an opportunity to test her out. He comes back full of smiles, so he must be pleased with what he has done for the Club. So are we!
On Thursday 8 August, Chris was presented with a bespoke album of photographs covering the launch and maiden voyage of the Access 303W – Endeavour. There was also a framed photograph to go on his wall at home, to be a constant reminder of how much he enjoys sailing!
Chris never misses an opportunity to sail, especially when he can share Endeavour with other sailors. The album and a framed photograph represent our thanks to Chris for his generosity.
The Gallery tells the whole story ...