Sailing race to benefit sailors with impaired mobility

The fifth annual Défi Sperry Challenge will take place Saturday at the Royal St. Lawrence Yacht Club in Dorval.

Mobility-impaired sailors and able-bodied sailors will team up to race competitively on Lac St. Louis in the oneday event, presented by BNI.

The sailing race also serves as a fundraiser for sailors with mobility impairment.

“The ability to sail while mobility-impaired is freeing, but it’s something more than that,” said event organizer Patrick Flaherty. “It’s all about courage, skill and daring — and the sheer determination to overcome enormous obstacles.

“Right from the beginning our event wanted to honour this unique determination by fundraising for the fantastic organization that supports them: the Association québecoise de voile adaptée (AQVA).”

The event is endorsed by the Voile Québec and Sail Canada governing bodies.

Other fundraising events will include trips aboard individual luxury yachts. The annual Cruise for a Cause takes place from 1 to 5 p.m. for non-sailors.

Participants can reserve a cruise at $100 per person. A tax receipt will be provided for each donation.

A dinner and silent auction will follow the race.

All proceeds will go to AQVA.

The Royal St-Lawrence Yacht Club is located at 1350 Lakeshore Rd. in Dorval.