Recognizing the joy and empowerment that come from sailing, TUUCI, a global leader in innovative shade structures, is donating high-performance umbrellas and flags to the BVI Watersports Centre in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, in support of RYA Sailability, an international program of sail- ing instruction for the disabled. “The donation from TUUCI meets a critically important need of our center and the Sailability program of providing an enjoyable and supportive learning environment for all of our students,” according to Alison Knights Bramble, princi- pal of Sailability BVI and the BVI Watersports Centre, a training center of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).

She adds, “TUUCI’s parasols are not only beautiful, but also high performing, to assure worry-free use for many years to come.” TUUCI is donating four of its Ocean Master Manta parasols, which feature a distinctive design inspired by the graceful movement of a manta ray. All TUUCI products are made from corrosion-resistant, marine-grade components that can withstand the sun, wind, rain, and salt spray of the ocean environment. Logo-decorated flags donated by TUUCI will be flown on the various sailing craft used by the Watersports Centre for all of its teaching programs, including RYA Sailability.

RYA Sailability was created by the RYA to offer disabled people the opportunity to learn sailing and enjoy the sport on a regular basis. More than 20,000 people with disabilities have taken part in RYA Sailability.

Dougan Clarke, chief shade architect with TUUCI, says, “Sailing is one of the most inspirational experiences that a person can enjoy, and through RYA Sailability, this adventure is being made available to the disabled. With an able assist from RYA Sailability, virtually any disabled person can become a sailor and enjoy the thrill of slicing through the water under a full breeze. The mission of RYA Sailability aligns perfectly with TUUCI’s vision of making time spent outdoors more enjoyable for everyone.”

Clarke presented the Manta parasols and flags to the BVI Watersports Centre in June 2012 at the Tortola location. This donation is one of many elements in TUUCI’s sponsorship of marine-related activities, including the donation of performance shade structures and on-the-water high-tech gear during the Highland Spring HIHO 2012 barefoot regatta, which ran July 1–8. The regatta attracts water-sports enthusiasts from around the world. Living aboard a fleet of 15 sailing catamaran yachts, competitors take part in an ambitious week-long racing event in open water, visiting more than 12 islands.