Episode 17: Paul Tingley

What better way to end the Finding Avalon guest episode list than with a Paralympian from right here in Nova Scotia? Paul Tingley is a decorated sailor and winner of three medals at the Paralympic Games, including gold in 2008.

He’s also the chair of AbleSail Network Canada, and as you’ll hear Paul explain in this episode, sailing is for everyone! The AbleSail Network guides and supports adaptive sailing programs across the country, so that Canadians of all ages and abilities can experience the freedom, independence and joy of sailing.

This organization’s nearly 30-year legacy is impressive, with 17 adapted sailing member clubs across Canada, over 2,000 Disabled sailors spending more than 9,000 hours on the water each year thanks to AbleSail’s adaptive sailing support.

I had the privilege of serving on the national board with Paul and leading a rebranding and new website to promote this organization that makes sailing possible for people with disabilities. As a lover of sailing growing up in Newfoundland to a master boatbuilder and fisherman grandfather, this was a pleasure to support AbleSail.

As an adult I completed tall ship training and a thrilling transatlantic crossing adventure that will forever be a lifechanging memory and character builder. I’m hoping to get out on the water in Halifax with the local club sometime soon.

It was fantastic to bring Paul on the podcast to speak about his love for parasailing and his leadership. As you’ll discover, he’s personable, positive and a champion for adapted sailing in this country. I couldn’t think of a better person to close the first season of the Finding Avalon Podcast with than this leader and advocate!

“When I went out sailing with my physiotherapist, who happened to be a world champion sailor, we went out on the water that first day and I left the wheelchair at the dock.

This is about eight months after my accident and I got to strap into the chair. It was a nice sunny day, good winds, and we were going pretty quick and we were pushing the boat to the edge.

The water was coming in and I was totally engulfed. And it was exhilarating, and there are smiles and we’re learning everything together and you just don’t think about your disability or the things that you can’t do anymore.

It was just like this mental massage. It was an escape that I could go and not worry about these kinds of things. So, I knew that that was the sport for me after that first day. And that’s when I really was hooked.”
Paul Tingley

About this Episode

Episode Title: Sailing Beyond Limits: Empowerment and Adventure with Adapted Sailing with Paul Tingley (S1E17)

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Finding Avalon podcast, host Jennifer Barnable speaks with Paul Tingley, a three-time Paralympic medallist and chair of the Able Sail Network. They discuss Paul’s journey into adaptive sailing following a skiing accident that left him paralyzed, his experiences in competitive sailing, and the importance of adaptive sailing for people with disabilities.

Paul shares insights on how sailing can be inclusive for everyone, the role of the Able Sail Network in promoting adaptive sailing in Canada, and the personal and community benefits of engaging in this sport. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to get involved in adaptive sailing.

Takeaways

Paul Tingley became involved in adaptive sailing after a skiing accident paralyzed him.
Paul’s competitive sailing journey led him to win three Paralympic medals, showcasing his dedication and elite skill.
Sailing provides a unique opportunity for people with disabilities to experience freedom, independence and adventure.
Sailing is an exhilarating sport that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Adaptive sailing can be tailored to meet the needs of people with all kinds of disabilities.
The Able Sail Network promotes adaptive sailing across Canada, fostering community, accessibility and inclusivity.
The community aspect of sailing helps build relationships, share best practices and foster support among participants.
The Mobility Cup is an annual regatta that brings together adaptive sailors from across Canada for both community and competition.
Paul emphasizes the importance of patience, education, and forgiveness in achieving disability inclusion in society.
Canadians with disabilities can discover the joy and empowerment of sailing beyond limits by reaching out to AbleSail Network.

Listen to Episode 17 here

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