The Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee and Able Sail NL are teaming up to break down barriers that get in the way of accessible sailing and rowing on Quidi Vidi Lake.

New supports that will be applied include the utilization of lifting equipment—provided by Able Sail NL—to promote an accessible fixed-seat rowing program, establishment of a schedule which allows Able Sail NL to operate an accessible sailing program on Quidi Vidi Lake, and an information exchange program to update both groups throughout the duration of a program.

The two groups signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) over the summer and it will continue for the coming years.

The sailing portion has begun, with the goal of installing the lift for fixed-seat rowing to be ready for the 2021 rowing season.

President of the Regatta Committee Bradley Power says for the last several years—in partnership with InclusionNL—they have been focused on increasing the accessibility of the Royal St. John’s Regatta so that it can be enjoyed by all people.

Matt Debicki, President of Able Sail NL adds that they envision the partnership to considerably grow the accessibility of these sports for many years to come.