A three-year pilot program at Harvard University (Cambridge, Mass.) has culminated in a formal partnership between the University’s sailing team and Rhode Island-based Sail To Prevail, the not-for-profit organization that has pioneered overcoming adversity through the sport of sailing.

In collaborating with Sail To Prevail CEO Paul Callahan (Newport, R.I./Cape Coral, Fla.), a Harvard graduate and accomplished sailor, O’Connor has brought a new dimension to the Cambridge campus, as well as the local community.

O’Connor dedicates at least 15% of his overall practice time to allowing members of the sailing team to work with specially trained instructors from Sail To Prevail. 

The program, which runs during the fall season (roughly twice a week, weather permitting) from the Harvard Sailing Center in Cambridge, allows the Sail To Prevail participants and instructors to sail on the Charles River in a specially-equipped Catalina 20 right alongside members of the varsity sailing team.

The mission of Sail To Prevail is to utilize sailing to teach people with disabilities how to use the acquired sailing skills – including teamwork and leadership – in their daily lives to overcome adversity and gain self-confidence. 

Sail To Prevail has helped over 18,000 individuals since the organization was founded in 1982. From its base in Fort Adams State Park in Newport, R.I., the organization coordinates a wide variety of sailing opportunities. 

Each summer, approximately 1,000 people with disabilities learn the skills of sailing in our fleet of uniquely adapted, 20-foot sailboats. Our programs strongly encourage disabled individuals to be active participants by steering the boat and trimming sails. 

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SAILING PROGRAMS FOR ALL DISABILITIES

Physically Disabilities:

When needed, participants are boarded onto our boats using a transfer lift. They are then safely secured into specially designed pivoting seats allowing them the freedom of movement to sail the boat.

Cancer:

The Sail Away from Cancer Program was established and pioneered by Sail To Prevail. Pediatric cancer patients sail with their resident doctors and family members to create a unique “out of hospital” experience. 

Veterans with Disabilities:

Honoring those who have served our country, the Disabled Veterans Program offers a free weekend of sailing to our distinguished veterans wounded in combat.

The Broad Spectrum of Autism:

Children with autism are designated certain tasks aboard the sailboats to improve their focus and concentration skills. Young sailors are encouraged to sail with a caregiver or parent, if appropriate. 

Emotional Disabilities:

This new program is dedicated to those individuals who are experiencing emotional trauma in their lives. Our methodology seeks to enhance the positive aspects derived from participating in the soothing and comforting environment of sailing.

Paralympic Training & Regattas:

Sail To Prevail has all three of the Paralympic Class boats (23-foot “Sonar” for a three-person team, a “SKUD 18” for a two-person team, and a “2.4 Metre” for an individual). 

Facility & Instructors:

First-time and experienced sailors are welcome at Sail To Prevail. Our program is available to all people with disabilities and has programs designed to meet specific needs.

Learn more at Raritan Engineering and see how we always have more information on marine sanitation device and on why a disability shouldn’t take you away from sailing.