Our Mission

National Capital Able Sail Association (NCASA) is a charitable organization dedicated to fostering inclusive and barrier-free sailing experiences for individuals with physical disabilities, through recognized Able Sail programs within the National Capital Region.

NCASA supports accessible sailing by:

● Community Integration: We actively collaborate with organizations like the Able Sail Network and the National Capital Sports Council for the Disabled to broaden reach and bolster the public profile of able sail programs.

● Inclusive Sailing Environment: We directly fund initiatives that integrate sailors with disabilities into the wider sailing community, including social events, regattas, and volunteer recognition. Our sponsorship of the local National Capital Cup, a regatta for disabled sailors, fosters camaraderie and shared experience.

● Financial Accessibility: Through the George Simpson Legacy Fund, we provide bursaries to enable participation for disabled sailors. Additionally, we offer travel subsidies to remove financial barriers for both recreational and competitive sailors.

● Program Sustainability: NCASA will pursue grants and corporate funding to ensure the long-term financial stability of recognized Able Sail programs.

About National Capital Able Sail Association

NCASA emerged from the initial experience of sailors with disabilities on a Tanzer 22 in the early 1990s. This foundational moment led to a key acquisition in 1997: Nepean Sailing Club secured the first two Martin 16 sailboats, specifically designed for sailors with physical disabilities. Building on this progress, NCASA was formally incorporated as a charitable organization in 1998 with a clear mission: to enable the active participation of people with disabilities in life through sailing. Since its inception, NCASA has had many requests for financial support from the Able Sail Program. Various funding options and fundraising initiatives have occurred to subsidizie tangible projects such as:

● Fleet Expansion: The acquisition of additional specialized Martin 16 sailboats: a third in 2003, a fourth in 2005, and a fifth in 2008. This fleet of five remains heavily utilized, providing sailing experiences on over 65 days each season.

● Infrastructure Investment: Four permanent cranes on the Able Sail Dock, renamed George Simpson Landing in 2023 in honor of its first President.

● Adaptive Equipment: adjustable bucket seats for the Martin 16s, ensuring comfort and support for various disabilities, and gradual replacement

● Equipment Maintenance: The safety and reliability of its fleet through the regular purchase of new sails.

● Transfer and Support: Various sizes of slings are required to meet the diverse transfer and support requirements of sailors with disabilities.

● Independent Steering: Joystick-style auto-helms to enable independent steering for individuals with limited manual dexterity.

● Safety Measures: Waterproof walkie-talkies to ensure constant communication with the dedicated Safety Boat, ensuring a secure environment.

● Resource Protection: boat covers on each Martin 16 to prevent water accumulation, as the boats lack self-bailers.

● Volunteer Support: Recognizing their critical role, NCASA relies on heavily on volunteers for rigging, derigging, companion sailing, and safety boat operation, and acknowledges their contribution through an annual appreciation event.

● Fleet Maintenance: Essential annual maintenance is conducted on all boats to guarantee their continued safe and reliable operation.

Since 1998, NCASA has facilitated sailing opportunities for over 500 individuals with disabilities, enabling both recreational and competitive participation. The organization's unwavering dedication has not only introduced countless individuals to the joys of sailing but has also fostered a sense of belonging, achievement, and active engagement within the community.