California Inclusive Sailing Hosts Sailing for All in Newport Beach

In his continuing quest to make sailing available to and more inclusive for more people, Christian Buhl’s California Inclusive Sailing (CIS) and the Lido Isle YC Junior Board hosted the 4th Annual “Inclusive Day on the Bay” on Sunday, September 25. Fifty-nine people dedicated their Sunday to help people sail on beautiful Newport Bay. Volunteers from the PIMCO Foundation sailed with Special Olympics athletes on a fleet of adaptive boats, each equipped with nets to catch floating debris.

A perfect Southern California breeze powered the boats and brought many smiles. CIS also conducted its first youth-inclusive tennis clinic. Christian Buhl, founder of California Inclusive Sailing, greeted everyone with a message: “With the right team, the right tools and at the right time, you can really make your dreams come true. So find your purpose and never stop dreaming, because today is the right time. Thank you, volunteers, for all you do to help others.” Buhl then presented Lido Isle Yacht Club Junior Board member Chase Decker with a 16-ft RS Venture adaptive sailboat and a mobility lift used to transfer people from their chair to a boat. With these tools and his team, Chase can start a comprehensive inclusive sail program for the local community.

After the rotation from the bay to the tennis court, a barbecue was enjoyed by all thanks to the Newport Beach Sunrise Rotary Club. California Inclusive Sailing is a grassroots volunteer-based charity that promotes inclusive outdoor recreation. The California Inclusive Sailing motto is, “Harness the wind, soak in the sunshine and lift your spirits.” CIS thanks PIMCO Foundation, Special Olympics athletes and their families, Sidecar Donuts, and the Lido Isle YC for hosting such a special day.