NEWPORT, R.I. — Three nonprofit organizations focused on sailing and marine safety will benefit from the annual Sail for Hope regatta scheduled for Sept. 27 around Jamestown, organizers announced Monday.
The fundraising race will support Warrior Sailing, which teaches wounded veterans sailing skills, the Better Bay Alliance’s boating safety programs, and Sail Newport’s community access initiatives.
Warrior Sailing provides sailing instruction to wounded, ill and injured veterans while developing technical, social and job skills through leadership, teamwork and self-reliance training.
“We are honored to be part of the Sail for Hope Regatta, joining an incredible community on the water while raising awareness for our mission,” said Cory Kapes, Warrior Sailing operations director. “Getting military service members on the water provides powerful physical, mental and emotional benefits, helping them cope with the long-term effects of PTSD, brain injury, amputation, paralysis and more.”
The Better Bay Alliance focuses on enhancing boating safety on Rhode Island waters through its digital Live Chart platform, which maps more than 400 local marine events throughout the boating season.
“Live Chart is free to the public and is a tool for any mariner to avoid congested areas and assist in safe boating on Narragansett Bay,” said Dave Lussier, the alliance’s president.
Sail Newport, which has operated for more than 40 years, provides community sailing access through affordable programs, rentals, instruction and events.
“One of the ways Sail Newport removes barriers to participation in the sport of sailing is by providing financial aid to sailors who might otherwise be unable to participate,” said Brad Read, Sail Newport executive director. “Donations from Sail for Hope will help Sail Newport’s program of financial assistance for families.”
The regatta is open to sailboats 22 feet and larger, with racing classes including PHRF spinnaker and non-spinnaker, Sail Newport J/22 One-Design and Multihull divisions. Powerboats may join the flotilla around Conanicut Island. Sail Newport will assign rating numbers for boats without Narragansett Bay PHRF ratings.
Following the race, participants will attend a fundraising social at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard, where class awards and recognition for the top fundraising boat will be presented.
Registration and donations for the three organizations are available online.
