Giving people of determination a chance to enjoy sailing

 Global integrated shipping, logistics and marine services provider GAC has signalled its continued support for efforts making sailing accessible to all with the extension of its sponsorship deal with the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club  Sailability programme.

The worldwide, not-for-profit, volunteer-based Sailability movement facilitates sailing for everyone regardless of experience and competence. The initiative offers a structured programme that rotates students with learning or physical challenges through a range of land and water-based activities, from sailing theory, wind awareness and knot tying to tacking, gybing and more.

From its small beginnings in 2009 with just four volunteers and a single student, DOSC Sailability, Powered by GAC, is gearing up for the new season when it will give over 70 students a taste of sailing, aided by around 100 registered volunteers.

GAC first signed up as the programme’s main sponsor in 2019.

“With GAC’s continued support for the next three years, DOSC Sailability remains committed to making the fabulous sport of sailing inclusive for everyone,” says Dubai Offshore Sailing Club Commodore Simon Reeves. “GAC’s sponsorship will facilitate the important upgrading of our fleet over the coming years and enable us to replace some of our worn-out land-based teaching aids. We will also purchase buoyancy aids specially designed to be more comfortable for students with limited upper body mobility.”

Stuart Bowie, GAC Group Vice President – Commercial, adds: “The sea is part of the GAC DNA, so we know the thrill and freedom the sport offers and are delighted to be able to continue supporting DOSC Sailability’s important work in making the sport accessible for all.

“Our sponsorship chimes with GAC Group’s sustainability strategy, which includes a commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals, to encourage effective partnerships and raise awareness for worthy causes.”