Sailboats to Race San Diego's Big Bay for Good Cause

Tuesday, 09 June 2009
Contact: Barbara Moreno (619) 686-6216

A special sailing event is coming to San Diego Bay June 12 and 13. The first ever West Marine Challenged America Regatta will bring the waters off Shelter Island alive with dozens of sailboats racing to help raise money to help those with disabilities learn to sail.

Described as "a fun race for bragging rights," the regatta helps support the work of Challenged America.

"Challenged America really began in 1978 out of the frustration by two disabled veterans who just wanted to learn how to sail and no one at that time was able to handle their special needs," said Urban Miyares, co-founder of Challenged America.

The non-profit, all-volunteer organization, has been recognized as a pioneer in the field of adaptive sailing, providing free learn-to-sail and advanced sailing opportunities to kids and adults with disabilities, their loved ones, and volunteers.

The Regatta begins Friday, June 12 with the Commodore's Challenge Cup, where seven local yacht club commodores will be racing at 4 p.m. in the Challenged America Martin 16 foot boats. Following the race, the world-famous sailor Paul Cayard will be in town to do a guest appearance at the Friday night auction and dinner at the Bali Hai.

The Regatta was organized by West Marine and Cortez Racing Association.

"It's exciting to have such a regatta on the Big Bay, it's just going to be wonderful," said Miyares.

Among the racers will be Chris Freeman. He was left a paraplegic 12 years ago after being hit by a jet skier on near the Colorado River in Arizona.

"Sailing in the ocean basically was my life for as long as I could remember. When I found out about the group and got involved, it meant a lot, it was like things didn't have to change as much as I thought it would," he said.

Freeman now who serves on the Challenged America board of directors.

The Regatta begins at noon Saturday. There is a $50 entry free that includes after-race tickets fro up to six people. The post-race awards ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. at the Point Loma West Marine store's parking lot on Rosecrans.

"You don't have to be a sailor, just come out and watch the event," said Miyares.

Funded by contributions from the general public, sponsorship, public speaking honorariums, and various fund development activities, thousands have participated in the program. All contributions are tax-deductible. For additional information on Challenged America and how you can participate, volunteer, sponsor and help, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , leave a phone message at 619-523-9318 or visit www.ChallengedAmerica.org.

The Port of San Diego granted Challenged America $15,000 in financial assistance in fiscal year 2009-2010.

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