Photo: Kevin Wixom trimming the genoa aboard B'Quest I, a Tripp 40 (2005).
Kevin Wixom, Team Challenged America 2005 Transpac crew member and volunteer, has accepted the chair position of the Council for Sailors with Disabilities, US SAILING. Great going Kevin.
Okay, sailors all know that cooking in a kitchen shoreside is a snap. But take a bucking sailboat in a wind-swept sea, and even boiling water and pouring it is a challenge. So you galley-salts, “how” and “what” do you cook when at sea?
For example: I can remember sailing on the east coast years ago in my youth, and one crusty sailing veteran used only coffee (percolator) pots to cook with, on a two-burner stove. He claimed it was the easiest and safest way to cook as, with his half-dozen coffee pots (one reserved exclusively for brewing coffee, and the other for hot water only), he would strum up the greatest soups and stews, pasta dishes and hearty and warm breakfast one could ever imagine. And there was always a hot pot of water on the stove for instant coffee, tea, hot chocolate or bullion.
Do you have any innovative or galley secrets you could share? Let us know. We’re looking for those unique recipes, cooking utensils, and methods of cooking that can be included in the Challenged America newsletter, and later be put into a book, giving you and your boat’s name credit.
Q. How do I schedule sailing?
A. Just call or email the Challenged America office – at least 4 days prior to your day of request to sail, along with information on your type of disability, so we can meet any special needs/accommodations and schedule a volunteer companion sailor.
Q. How much does sailing cost?
A. It’s free, but we do accept and welcome donations.
Q. What is Open Sailing?
A. Open Sailing days are our primary days for small boat sailing, and adaptive sail training for potential and existing sailing companions and instructors.
Q. Can I only sail on Open Sailing Days?
A. No, you can sail on ANY day you request, provided a qualified companion sailor is available, and the sailing office is open.
Q. Can I learn to sail at Challenged America if I don’t have a disability?
A. Yes, but there is a cost . . . You must be willing to volunteer.
Volunteer Steve Edenson and blind sailor Hiro taking Casual, our newest donation out for a first spin on San Diego’s Big Bay.
“Casual” is a Santana 525, designed by Shad Turner and built by the W.D. Schock Corporation to the highest standards of quality. it is a beautiful boat with sleek lines and well balanced dimensions unique in a 25 footer.
The 525 was designed for competitive racing under a variety of measurement rules. The hull is shallow and of light displacement but has a considerable amount of beam to insure stability. The displacement to length ratio of the 525 is very low, providing excellent light air performance. The keel is a deep fin and the rudder is a simple but highly efficient spade. The hull is quick to surf and is lots of fun to sail in a breeze. Since the 525 is also built to strict one design specifications, its owners find great pleasure in level class racing as well.
The cockpit of the Santana 525 is probably the best available in a boat of this size. long bench seats and a contoured deck shape offer welcome comfort and a wonderful sense of security for the family. The hardware is strategically placed for efficient crew work, with all halyards lead to the cabintop. The blister design of the deck eliminates sharp corners and provides extra wide side decks for safe and easy deck maneuvers.
The beam of the 525 offers an amazing feeling of spaciousness below. Two wide midship bunks provide extremely comfortable seating in the main cabin and are wonderful for overnight cruising. A 6½ foot v-berth provides additional sleeping accommodations. The cleverly capsulized galley unit is equipped with a sink for an insulated ice box and provides good countertop space. Two beautifully finished hanging lockers, an attractive interior liner, and a handsome teak and holly sole give the 525 the look and feel of a much larger boat. Many a crew has spent hours after the race in the comfort of this cozy interior.
The crew said: She is fast and fun, we love her.