Galway City Sailing Club and Galway Sea Scouts were delighted to host children with additional needs and their families for a special day of sailing and powerboating on Saturday, 16 August.
We had two Hawk sailing boats on the water – Gina G, kindly loaned by Irish Sailing, and Loinnir, belonging to Galway Sea Scouts – along with the Scouts’ powerboat MaryAnn.
The weather could not have been better. Excitement filled the harbour as families arrived, buoyancy aids were fitted, and crews set off. With the morning tide full, we explored the harbour and enjoyed trips up to the Spanish Arch before heading out into the bay, sheltered by the Mutton Island causeway. Once the sails were hoisted and the engines switched off, there was a wonderful calm as the boats glided along under sail. Parents described it as a very special experience.
There were plenty of memorable moments: Anton, one of our older sailors, said he felt “like a millionaire” while taking the helm of a Hawk; Gavin Murphy kept everyone laughing with cartoon impressions; others practised knots; and one lucky powerboat group were treated to a display by dolphins.
The smiles said it all, but a message we received afterwards summed it up perfectly: “Thanks for a fabulous day.”
Our volunteers enjoyed the day just as much and were especially grateful for the delicious hot lunch provided by City Sushi Galway.
Submitted to Irish Sailing by Galway City Sailing Club, an event run by themselves and Galway Sea Scouts with the support funding from Irish Sailing and Galway Sports Partnership.