Verona Sailing Course Empowers Tetraplegic Students with Support from Local Institutions

Eos Sailing for All (formerly Tetragonauti), of which Verona tribunal judge Michele Dusi is also a member, in collaboration with the J 24 sailing class, led by Veronese Erwin Linthout, the Faculty of Motor Sciences of the University of Verona, the Yacht Club Verona, the Brenzone Nautical Circle, and a group of physiotherapists from Sacro Cuore Hospital in Negrar, has launched an experimental sailing course reserved for tetraplegic students, supported by a contribution from the Banca Popolare di Verona.

The course activities and methods

The theoretical lessons will take place at the Y.C. Verona headquarters, located in the city in via Segantini, while the boat outings will be based in Castelletto, at the Brenzone circle’s location. “Lessons will be taught by a prominent figure in international sailing, the Roman Gianni Torboli,” explains Dusi, “who, in addition to boasting an exceptional sailing record—including a world title and participation in the Atlanta 1996 Olympics with the Celo brothers—is also a person of great humanity.

When we asked him to participate in the initiative, he agreed without hesitation.” The four students, three of whom are women, participating in the first course will use a special seat that allows safe movement on the vessel. “This activity also has rehabilitative purposes,” Dusi continues, “having personally benefited from sailing after an accident that deprived me of use of my legs.”

Legislative efforts and calls for modification

Dusi is also active on the legislative front; a couple of years ago, he pointed out that the Presidential Decree 431/1997 effectively prevents the obtaining and renewal of boating licenses for anyone who is not health-standard. “This conflicts with national and European regulations that guarantee the right to equality and inclusion for people with disabilities,” Dusi noted.

Dusi’s complaint was previously taken up by Veronese deputy Umberto Chincarini, but even today, the regulation has not been amended. (l.b.)