SAILABILITY HONG KONG LIMITED
Registered Charity No: 91/15775
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Looking forward
24hr Charity Dinghy Race at Hebe Haven Yacht Club
23rd & 24th May 2026
Closely followed by
World Sailing's Steering the Course Women's Sailing Festival 27th to 31st May 2026
our 6th year as part of this race with HHYC - check out our previous 5 years in downloads
We Make Sailing Accessible to EVERYONE whilst changing lives.
Come and see what we do 'seeing is believing'
Newsletter Edition 10 now available in 'downloads'
October to December 2025 Highlights
December
Ending the year on a high!
Sailability HK was honoured with two awards at the prestigious Sailing Federation of HK, China, Annual Dinner.
The received the award for the 2025 New Sailing Initiative to improve or develop sailing in HK, was awarded to Sailability for our Junior Optimist Programme.
Kay Rawbone received the award presented by CHEUNG Mei Han, President of the Sailing Federation of HK, China.
This programme offers children and youth from HK’s grass roots population who wouldn’t normally have the means to try sailing, for example, ethnic minorities and / or low-income families. This is another milestone for Sailability and adds a new level of support to access sailing in HK. It contributes to the Sailability mission as we continue to Make Sailing Accessible to Everyone.
FOO Yuen Wei was recognised as Para Sailor of the year. 2025 has been a wonderful year for him, first winning gold in the Hansa Liberty class World Championships in Australia, and then silver at the World AbilitySports Beach Games in Turkey.
Accepting his award, FOO Yuan Wai paid tribute to the many people in sailing and Sailability who contribute, saying “like a car is not only about the wheels, it needs many parts working together to make the car run smoothly; sailing too has many parts and many people working to bring the joy of sailing to thousands of families. I hope everyone who wants to, can be given the opportunity.”
Xmas Party with HHYC - together we held a fund raising night to raise funds and awareness of sailing and its inclusiveness and accessibility to us ALL. There was music and a lot of fun together raising funds for Sailability and the Club's Youth Development fund. Funds raised HK$32,340 - HK$16,170 for both causes. Thank you everyone who donated.
Oman - Inaugural World Sailing Inclusion Championships
Final day drama in Oman saw Joseph CHEUNG Tsz Hin take third place in the Intellectual Impairment Championship (ILCA 6) at the event.
In an exciting finale he won the last two races on the last day of the Championship to grab third place just ahead of his Hong Kong teammate LEUNG Man Hong!
These two young sailors are aged 19 and 17 – what a great future they have ahead of them! Especially so when you realise that the two of them were sailing an ILCA 6 dinghy for the first time in Oman!
Kay Rawbone, who was with the team in Oman said she was, “so proud of the growth in both of them, the commitment to do better each day, and the camaraderie and friendship was really amazing.”
Joseph finished just 4 points behind the winner, Murray McDonald of the UK.
In the Hansa 303 series FUNG Wai On finished race 9 in second place to come 12th overall.
November
The Inaugural InterSchool/NGO/Organisation Race Day took place at Hebe Haven Yacht Club.
This inclusive event was a celebration of sailing open to schools and NGO’s who have partnered with Sailability HK. The focus was on fun, teamwork, accessibility on the water, and making waves together!
On a sunny day, 13 boats competed over 4 races. The 26 sailors of all ages were drawn from a wide range of schools and NGO’s including Po Yan Oblate Primary School, Hong Kong Red Cross Margaret Trench School, Ebenezer School, Morning Hope Hong Chi Winifred Mary Cheung School, Pao Yuk Shing School, Education University of HK, Principal Chan Free Tutorial World, Sai Kung District Community Centre, The Boys and Girls Association, The Nesbitt Centre, and Sailability HK.
Taking part was more important than the result, but for the record, the winners were Kayley and Lucas in 1st place, in 2nd place were Emma and Ralf, while Henry and Kai came 3rd. All home grown sailors at Hebe Haven on our Saturday Programmes
Events like this don’t just happen – it requires a lot of effort from many people! HUGE thank you’s to everyone who made this event possible
- to Sun Hung Kai Scallywag Foundation Programme for supporting most of the sailors to learn to sail.
- to Jerry for his kind donation for the hire of Hebe One for parents to view the race near HKUST.
- to Wallace for the prizes.
- SKDCC for providing delicious snacks
- BGCA for the photos.
- and all the Instructors, Volunteers and the Race Management Team without whom we couldn't hold a race!!.
TREATS Annual Regatta
Another year and another the Annual Treats Sailing regatta. This event is hosted by HHYC with Sailability HK as an organising partner. The event is funded by the Li Ka Shing Foundation.
TREATS are one of Sailability’s long term partner charities and they have sailed with us since 2012. Founded in 1979, their mission is to create an inclusive society for all children which is inline with your mission too..
Sunny weather and some breeze made for a wonderful day for those taking part plus their family members who were able to watch proceedings from onboard Hebe One.
OCTOBER
World Abilitysports Beach Games 2025
Sailability HK were invited to be part of the World Ability Sports Beach Games in Mersin, Turkey!
World Abilitysport is one of the world’s leading organisations for the development of Para sports with a membership of more than 80 countries around the world. This is the inaugural edition of the World Ability Sport Beach Games and includes a diverse programme of beach, aquatic and open-air sports.
The Opening Ceremony took place on Monday, 20th October, with racing on the following four days 21 to 25 October.
Our participation was being funded by the HK Paralympic Committee, and we are hugely grateful to the Committee for their proactive support for inclusive sailing in Hong Kong.
We would also like to acknowledge the efforts and support of HKSF without which our team would not have been selected.
The Sailability HK Team for Turkey:
• FOO Yuen Wai (Athlete)
• FUNG Wai On (Athlete)
• Sylvia LEUNG Yuk Chun (Athlete)
• CHUNG Oi Po (Athlete)
• Kay RAWBONE (Team Manager)
• Ed TANG Bing Fai (Head Coach)
• Gary YUEN Kam Tong (Team official)
• Ken LEUNG Kwok (Coach / official, self-funded)
• Jerome KONG Man Pok (HK Paralympic Committee Secretariat staff)
• Nathan LAM Tsz Lok (HK Paralympic Committee Secretariat staff)
• Sandra LUI Yee Shan (Physio)
FOO Yuen Wai took the silver medal at the World Ability Sports Beach Games in Mersin, Turkey!
Another great result for him and for Sailability Hong Kong! Rory McKinnna of Great Britain took the Gold Davide while Di Maria from Italy the bronze medal. Congratulations to both of them.
FUNG Wai On ended in 10th place, Sylvia Leung Yuk Chuk 11th overall and 4th in the female category, and CHUNG Oi Po was 5th in the female category and 15th overall.
HKODA Open & National Championships - October 2026
“Brilliant sailing by everyone!” was how Sailability HK Co-Founder and CEO Kay Rawbone described the results from the HKODA Open and National Championships which took place on Saturday and Sunday, 18th & 19th October, at Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club.
The Sailability team of 7 children from the Junior Sailing Programme took part in the Green fleet series.
Conditions were much more difficult than expected and it was challenging for everyone especially the younger ones, nevertheless Vhela came 4th and Luke was 17th out of 36 boats taking part. It was a great performance from Vhela in particular who improved throughout the 2 days of the Championships, achieving first place in races 6 and 9.
“All our sailors were positive and did their best. No one gave up over the 9 races and there were happy smiling faces at the end,” said Coach Rex.
The Sailability Junior Sailing Programme is based at RHKYC at Shelter Cove, led by Kevin Lewis (HKSF Senior Instructor and Trainer) and sponsored by our donors Raghav Maliah and Jane Lah (through Goldman Sachs Gives).
The HKODA Championships are organised by the Sailing Federation of Hong Kong China, and subvented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Board Arts and Sports Development Fund.
Asian Inclusive Sailing Series (AISS)
Endorsed by World Sailing, this landmark event was being hosted in India by the Yachting Association of India at the Royal Mysore Sailing Club and Sailability HK was represented at this regatta by Chan Tsun Ming, accompanied by Coach Ken Leung.
30 para sailors from 13 Asian nations Competitors from countries participated – including India, France, Thailand, Japan, Oman, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Hong Kong, competed alongside able-bodied sailors, reaffirming the region’s commitment to inclusive sports. With participation from emerging and established sailing nations alike, AISS stands as a powerful testament to accessibility, equity, and international camaraderie.
Fiona Kidd, Head of International Development at World Sailing said, “This initiative reflects our strategic goal to strengthen para inclusive sailing across Asia. We … look forward to the meaningful impact the Series will bring to the region.”
Experienced para sailor CHAN Tsun Ming achieved second place in the Hansa 303 one person para category!
CHAN Tsun Ming together with Coach Ken LEUNG Kwok came 5th in the 2-person Hansa 303 open category.
In the 1-person open category, CHAN Tsun Ming was 6th overall, and Ken LEUNG Kwok was 8th overall, out of 25. Well done Guys for flying the flag for HK!
Hong Kong Paralympic Day
Hong Kong Paralympic Day took place last weekend with a full day of interactive Para sports experiences and activities open to the public!
The event aims to raise awareness and promote inclusion through sport. Sailability was one of 17 sporting organisations taking part in the event at Kai Tak Sports Park.
Sailability had a central position in the main hall and there was lots of interest from visitors to the event, with our simulator attached to a Hansa 303 proving particularly popular.
Other sports on offer included Goalball, Wheelchair Fencing, Table Tennis etc Huge thanks to our HK Paralympic Committee for the continued support for Sailability Hong Kong!!
September 2025
Bart’s Bash 13th September 2025
Nearly 90 boats with 150 sailors took part in Bart’s Bash HK, a fundraising event for Sailability HK! Hansa’s, 2.4mR’s, Optimists, Fusion’s, and Quests all racing together!
The committee boat for the races was Hebe One which, along with MoHan, made the start line.
Beautiful blue sky conditions. After providing our results and funds raised for Sailability Hong Kong Limited we were place 2nd in the Bart's Bash Leader Board. Go Hebe and Sailability Hong Kong Limited, together we make a difference!!!!!
August 2025
COA Charity Lunch at Po Toi O on 30th August
The Cruiser Owners Association held a Charity Luncheon on Saturday 30 August to raise funds for Sailability HK.
Over 60 people attended including 30+ volunteers and sailors from Sailability HK and we thank the COA for their effort and thoughtful generosity in holding this event!
Everyone enjoyed a wonderful seafood lunch including crab, squid, oysters and fish - delicious!
The COA presented awards for their participation in the Macau Rally and the race preceding the lunch on Saturday There was also a “best photograph” competition – the winning photo featured Sailability’s 2.4mR boats.
Sailability CEO and Co-Founder Kay Rawbone addressed those present thanking the COA for their generous support and speaking warmly about Sailability volunteers of all ages who have worked tirelessly over the summer despite challenging weather at times!
International sailor Jingkun Xu visited us at HHYC on 24th August
Xu, who lost an arm in an accident at age 11, is an inspiration for his determination and resilience in completing the challenging solo, non-stop, around-the-world Vendee Globe race!
He is the first ever Chinese competitor to finish the Vendee Globe, securing 30th place in the 2024-25 edition after 99 days, 20 hours, 6 minutes, and 11 seconds at sea. The first and last time we met Xu was way back in 2017 when he sailed a Hansa Liberty with Mike and Toby Jenkin Jones at a Hebe Haven Yacht Club inclusive sailing event. We hope to welcome him back again in future!
July 2025
Sun Hung Kai supporting Sailability Hong Kong via their Scallywag Foundation Programme
Since partnering with Sailability HK in 2019, the SHK Scallywag programme has supported over 2,000 people to try sailing!
“We are very proud to have the support of Sun Hung Kai and Co” said Kay Rawbone, speaking to the Hebe Haven Yacht Club magazine. “Our SHK Scallywag sailors come from underrepresented areas of the community, irrespective of their ability, ethnicity, gender, race, sexual orientation, or economic status.” Many different groups including SEN, community organisations are included, both groups and individuals.
We’re happy to share that 𝗦𝘂𝗻 𝗛𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗞𝗮𝗶 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆𝘄𝗮𝗴 is featured in the latest edition of 𝗛𝗲𝗯𝗲 𝗝𝗲𝗯𝗲𝘀, the official magazine of the Hebe Haven Yacht Club (HHYC Official). The story captures how sailing reflects our ethos of “𝘌𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘦. 𝘈𝘥𝘢𝘱𝘵. 𝘌𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘭.”—both in competition and in our commitment to drive positive change.
Through interviews with four key voices, the article explores:
Tony Edwards (Executive Director & Deputy CEO of SHK & Co.) on why we champion sailing — a sport that mirrors the resilience and strategy of alternative investing.
David Witt (Skipper of SHK Scallywag Race Team) on his lifelong passion for sailing and the team’s relentless drive for excellence.
Kay Rawbone BEM (Co-founder of Sailability Hong Kong) on how the SHK Scallywag Foundation program breaks barriers, making sailing inclusive for everyone, including those with disabilities.
Tommy Wong (Program Beneficiary) on his journey from novice to Hong Kong National Team sailor —proof of sport’s transformative power.
From claiming line honors at the Loro Piana Giraglia 2025 and other prestigious regattas to empowering underrepresented communities, SHK Scallywag is more than a race team—it’s a force for progress.
Read the full feature below or at https://issuu.com/hebehaven.../docs/hebe_jebes_july_aug_2025 and join us in celebrating the impact we’re making, both on and off the water.
Promoting Sailability in the community
Sailability HK has taken part in an exhibition to promote sailing and our programmes to the Hong Kong community.
We were invited to attend the exhibition by the NGO Side by Side and 15 organisations including NGO’s, Universities, and government departments were present.
Hundreds of people turned up and our team spoke with many of them about the benefits of sailing and what the range of Sailability programmes offer.
A heartfelt thank you to Ah Po, Benson, Kristy, June, Isaac and Mike for staffing the Sailability stall!
Click to play
Click to read
June 2025
23rd July - MoHan's 3rd Birthday!!!!
Today is MoHan's Birthday and in celebration of this wonderful addition to our Sailability Hong Kong Limited family we would like to share with you a MoHan Life Book written and produced by Enrico Zanella of Solaris Yachts Asia, showing how this dream became an amazing story of accessibility and inclusiveness in the world of sailing. There are some amazing shots of MoHan and our people and we sincerely hope you enjoy your reading her story.
Huge thanks to the Li Ka Shing Foundation for enabling our vision to come true with their very kind donation, Solaris Yacht Asia, Solarista Club, MoHan's Sponsors and everyone associated with this project for their support to bring this dream to life.
MoHan has provided another dimension to Sailability and progression and opportunities to many who never thought they would sail on a yacht for leisure or race in competition with other yachts, sometimes winning prizes!. We are all very proud of our sailors, skipper and volunteer crew who continue to support this project on a regular basis. Without you ALL these life changes would not happen.
If anyone is interested in learning more about MoHan and how we do what we do, please don't hesitate to contact us. For those living in Hong Kong or visiting our lovely city ' Seeing is believing and this project is really worth seeing!!
Many thanks too to Generali, Lockly and Cynthia Li for their kind birthday celebration words
Kay in Taiwan
In mid-June, Co-Founder and CEO Kay Rawbone traveled to Taiwan at the invitation of the Min Yi charity to celebrate the opening of a new water sports centre in Fulong.
During the event, Kay shared insights about Sailability’s inclusive sailing programmes and how they contribute to making Hong Kong a more accessible and welcoming community. The Taiwanese audience showed great interest in learning about these initiatives and their impact.
Min Yi, a charity with a strong disability programme, has previously sent representatives to visit Sailability in Hong Kong, strengthening the partnership between the two organisations. Kay also reunited with Masa, a longtime friend and sailor who has competed alongside Hong Kong para sailors in 2.4mR races. This visit highlights the growing international collaboration to promote inclusive water sports and community engagement across the region.
Young Voices: Kayley and Lucas Share Their Sailability Experience
Kayley, a Primary 5 student from Wong Tai Sin, has been volunteering for six months. She says,"I’m honoured to be part of this team. It has taught me the importance of communication, and I’m still learning to be more confident talking with others. I really like being here at Sailability."
Lucas, also a 10-year-old Primary 5 student from Wong Tai Sin, has been a volunteer sailor for the same length of time. He shares,"I enjoy sailing in the fresh air and sunshine. Sailing keeps me healthy and cultivates my adventurous spirit. It also helps me develop problem-solving skills. I like sailing a lot and hope to share the joy of sailing with you!"
Their stories reflect the positive impact Sailability has on young volunteers, fostering growth, confidence, and a passion for sailing.
Steering the Course: Women’s Sailing Festival 2025
The Women’s Sailing Festival 2025 concluded with the Leo Wealth Hong Kong Open Ladies’ / Girls’ Champs Regatta 2025. All Sailability boats in the regatta featured either two women or a mixed crew with at least one female sailor. For the first time, the MoHan boat took part with a predominantly female crew, including a female helm, marking an important milestone for the event.
Participants enjoyed a competitive and enjoyable regatta, with Jeanne Clot and Foo Yuen Wai securing first place in the Hansa 303 mixed section.The week-long festival included a wide range of activities both on and off the water, such as sailing races, a World Sailing webinar, race management training, an evening event titled “Steering the Music,” and a panel discussion called “Women in Action.” The Women’s Sailing Festival 2025 celebrated the skill, dedication, and camaraderie of women sailors. A total of 151 women and girls took part this year, bringing our HK participation during the 5 years of this event to 600 participants!!!!! Go Sailability HK!!!!!!
May 2025
Sun Hung Kai Scallywag Foundation 2025 Open Dinghy Regatta
The Sun Hung Kai Scallywag Foundation 2025 Open Dinghy Regatta enjoyed a fantastic weekend with strong sunshine and favorable breezes for sailing. More than 330 sailors competed across 260 boats in a wide variety of classes, including Feva, Popper, Quest, Multi-hull, Optimist, Fusion, ILCA, 29er, 420, as well as inclusive classes like Hansa Liberty, Hansa 303, and 2.4mR.
In the classes where Sailability HK was represented, outstanding performances included FOO Yuen Wai winning the 2.4mR class by securing first place in three races despite having to withdraw from one race on day one for boat repairs. Para sailor Mark Poon claimed first place in the Hansa Liberty class after winning three races. Henry, a visually impaired sailor, and his father Kai also took first place in the Hansa 303 class after finishing first in two races—a remarkable achievement for the team. The regatta showcased the skill and determination of sailors across all levels and highlighted the success of inclusive sailing programmes.
Kay Visits Buckingham Palace
Following her award of the BEM medal last year, Sailability Co-Founder and CEO Kay Rawbone was invited to Buckingham Palace in London this week. Kay attended the garden party accompanied by her granddaughter Sophie. The garden party began at 3 pm with gates opening, followed by afternoon tea served from 3:30 pm. The arrival of the King at 4 pm was marked by the playing of the National Anthem. This prestigious invitation recognises Kay’s outstanding contributions, and her achievements continue to be a source of pride for the HHYC community.
HHYC Open Day 2025
The HHYC Open Day 2025 welcomed many new faces and families experiencing sailing for the first time. Alongside the activities and boats offered by HHYC, Sailability HK provided sailing opportunities on MoHan for 18 participants and took 78 people out in the Hansa 303s throughout the event. Attendees included guests from the Haven of Hope Relive project, the Deaf Association, and others interested in trying out the boats.
Approximately 40 volunteers supported the event, assisting with booth operations, registration, rigging and derigging, safety boat driving, dinghy simulator, Henna art, pontoon marshalling, and managing MoHan. Their efforts ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for all involved. The Open Day continues to promote inclusive sailing and community engagement, reflecting HHYC’s commitment to making sailing accessible to everyone
April 2025
Sailability Hosts HK Paralympic Committee Groups
Sailability Hong Kong welcomed groups from the Hong Kong Paralympic Committee (HKPC) as part of an initiative to encourage more para athletes to engage in sports. The ultimate goal is to nurture future world champions, and what better way to start than by introducing them to the exciting world of sailing?
Nathan Lam Tsz Lok, a Sports Manager at HKPC, shared with Sailability's Facebook page that the HKPC program focuses on connecting individuals and organizations offering para sport training. Many of the para athletes already participate in sports like badminton, basketball, running, triathlon, and dancing, but this was their first chance to experience sailing. During the sessions, participants and their family members had the opportunity to learn essential sailing skills. They practiced rigging a Hansa 303, learned basic knot tying, and even sailed with Sailability volunteers.
Hong Kong Shines again. This time at the Hansa World Championships in Australia
Hong Kong celebrated a remarkable achievement at the Hansa World Championships. Foo Yuen Wai was crowned the Hansa Liberty Open World Champion, marking a significant milestone for Hong Kong sailing. Additionally, Leo Purdie and Joel Suarez Felipe secured a notable second place in the Hansa 303 Para Two Person International Championship for athletes with intellectual impairment.
The experience at the championships was both challenging and exhilarating. Conditions were often overcast with occasional showers and shifting winds, which tested both the sailors and the race management team. Despite these challenges, the Hong Kong contingent remained delighted with their performance. Foo Yuen Wai's journey to the top was particularly impressive, as he overcame setbacks, including a boat issue that forced him to retire from one race. His determination and skill ultimately led him to claim the championship title. The event was a testament to the resilience and talent of Hong Kong's para sailors.
March 2025
Sailability Takes Third in the COA Solaris Pasta Cooking Cup
In a unique blend of sailing and culinary skills, Sailability Hong Kong's MoHan participated in the COA Solaris Pasta Cooking Cup last weekend. This innovative event brought together sailing enthusiasts and pasta cooking for a fun-filled day. MoHan's team excelled in both aspects, securing an impressive third place overall. The event was a resounding success, with everyone involved having a great time. Congratulations to the sailors and culinary team for their outstanding performance!
Hong Kong Society for the Blind Enjoys a Day of Sailing
The Hong Kong Society for the Blind visited Sailability at Hebe Haven on a lovely breezy day. Friends new and old took to the water, accompanied by a team of Sailability volunteers. The experience was particularly enjoyable for the visually impaired participants, who responded positively to the fresh air and the natural movement of the sea. This event highlighted the importance of inclusive sailing programs, which not only provide a sense of freedom and adventure but also foster teamwork and independence.
Volunteers played a crucial role in making this day a success. At Sailability, volunteers are the backbone of our mission to make sailing accessible to everyone. We welcome volunteers of all ages and backgrounds to join us in various roles, from sailing and boat maintenance to caring for individuals with disabilities, photography, social media management, and race management. Whether you have specific skills or just a willingness to help, there's always a way to contribute.
Inclusive Racing at the HHYC Saturday Series
Recently, nearly 40 boats participated in the third HHYC Saturday Series, including Hansa 303 and Hansa Liberty vessels from the Sailability fleet. This event provided an excellent opportunity for more experienced sailors from Sailability's Saturday program to hone their racing skills alongside a larger group, while less experienced sailors practiced in calmer waters closer to shore.
The races were conducted in an inclusive and fun environment, welcoming sailors of all abilities. Two races were held for all boats, with each completing two laps, except for the Optimist Green Fleet, which completed one lap. A pleasant breeze filled the afternoon, setting the stage for an exciting competition. However, the day took a dramatic turn during the final race as heavy rain swept in just as the boats were heading back to the club, leaving everyone drenched but exhilarated. This unexpected finale made the day truly unforgettable.
February 2025
A day on Sailability’s MoHan by Clelia, Volunteer
Last Sunday, I set out with Sailability on MoHan, alongside Kay and a small group of friends. The weather was kind: a bright, sunny day with a clear blue sky, rare for winter; and we sailed steadily around Hong Kong Island, taking in familiar sights like the iconic HK skyline and islands. The plan had been to watch the Hong Kong Race Week from the water, but it was cancelled due to a lack of wind. Still, the day turned out wonderful.
At Middle Island, we dropped anchor for a simple lunch of delicious sandwiches and lemon cake baked by Kay, which added a delightful, homemade comfort to the day. Throughout the day, I spent time with two younger companions, Matilda and Amber, who brought a spark of curiosity to the trip. The two young girls even took to climbing the boom, enthusiastically scrambling up over and over again. The crew, a mix of volunteers, beneficiaries, and people introduced to Sailability for the first time, were kind and patient, guiding us through steering the boat. Even the girls, as young as eight, took control with confidence!
After the day was over, I stepped off MoHan with a smile. It wasn’t just about the sailing; Sailability wove us all together: new friends, kind crew, fun moments. These outings build more than just memories, they create a community that feels like a family I didn’t expect to find.
Clelia Van's first time steering MoHan
Sun Hung Kai & Co. Hong Kong Race Week 2025
The Sun Hung Kai & Co. Hong Kong Race Week 2025 concluded on a windless note, with the final day’s races canceled due to lack of breeze. Despite the calm finish, championships were awarded based on the thrilling races completed earlier in the week. In the 2.4mR class, Virgile Bertrand clinched the title, finishing three points ahead of defending champion FOO Yuen Wai.
This year’s regatta marked a milestone as the largest to date, hosting an impressive 286 boats. Principal Race Officer Barry Truhol reflected on the event’s highs and lows: “We’ve had it all—cold, windy, hot, and even no wind. But it’s been an incredibly fun event with some truly exciting racing.”
A record 317 sailors from 12 countries and regions—including Canada, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong (China), Italy, Greece, Guam, Japan, Mainland China, Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, and the USA—competed, showcasing the event’s growing global appeal.
Sailability Shines at the 2025 Four Peaks Race Prize Giving Ceremony
Sailability celebrated a triumphant victory at the 2025 Four Peaks Race, securing first prize in the PHS Division B. The team’s outstanding performance was recognized at the Prize Giving Ceremony, where they proudly collected not one, but two trophies: the Aberdeen Boat Club Trophy and the Edwin Palfrey & Associates Trophy, the latter also honoring their top spot overall in the PHS Division B.
January 2025
Celebrating Chinese New Year at Hebe Haven Yacht Club
The spirit of Chinese New Year was vividly brought to life at Hebe Haven Yacht Club, the proud home of Sailability HK, with a mesmerizing Lion Dance performance. The event was graced by distinguished VIPs including Sonny Payne, Commodore of HHYC, Aaron Goach, Vice Commodore of HHYC, Mr. Shek Sze Ming, Honorary Advisor of Sai Kung Rural Committee, and Madam Tsang Kit Ying, Acting Divisional Commander of the Hong Kong Police Force Marine East Division.
The highlight of the celebration was undoubtedly the spectacular Lion Dance by the Brothers Martial Art Company. Their performance not only entertained but also symbolized good luck and prosperity for the new year. The vibrant dance created an atmosphere of joy and festivity. From Sailability HK, we wish everyone around the globe a Happy Chinese New Year with hopes of health, happiness, and harmony. 🐍🧧
MoHan stood out this year as one of only 8 boats to successfully complete the race, marking a remarkable achievement for our diverse team of disabled and able-bodied participants. The team included individuals with conditions like muscular dystrophy and polio, and notably, a lower amputee blade runner in his 70s.
Celvin, our 24-year-old SEN runner, etched his name in history as the first person with a disability to complete the 4 Peaks in this race. Sailability Hong Kong is thrilled to have supported Celvin and his mother in achieving this dream, showcasing the immense potential and ability of all who join us. Kay, who has been onboard for each of Sailability's participations in the last three years, described this year's conditions as "the coldest and windiest" compared to the previous two. MoHan crossed the finish line at 1:30pm on Sunday, concluding an intense 27-hour race.
Kay expressed her gratitude, "Thanks to Skipper Tai Leung and his brother Kelvin who ensured safety throughout our journey, our Para Sailors who took on significant roles in helming, main, and jib support, and of course, our runners and kayakers who demonstrated their capabilities in this mammoth task." She continued, "Thank you to the ABC event team, our sponsors, and our own sponsors for making these extraordinary events possible. I think you know where my heart lies, and every day we make a difference in the lives of everyone who joins us. I'm so proud of our team for this race. Four other boats retired, but we carried on with no complaints from our crew. The resilience and determination shown by everyone was second to none and an example to us all."
Chinese New Year Calligraphy
Celebrate the Year of the Snake with us! Volunteer Yuen, a gem in our Sailability crew, crafted special Chinese New Year messages for our sailors at last weekend's Saturday Sailing session. His creativity added an extra touch of joy to our festivities. Wishing everyone a prosperous and joyful New Year! 🧧
Sailability HK’s Co-Founder and CEO Kay Rawbone BEM Appointed Chair of World Sailing's Para Sailing Committee
Kay Rawbone, the co-founder and CEO of Sailability HK, has been named the new Chair of the World Sailing Para Sailing Committee, a role she described as both "overwhelming" and an "honour".
Announced a few weeks ago, this appointment marks a significant milestone not only for Kay but also for the entire Sailability HK community, highlighting their journey since 2009. "It was such a shock and at the same time such an honour, not just for me but all those who have worked and supported us since 2009 to be where we are today on the world stage. It really puts Hong Kong on the map too," Kay shared in an exclusive statement on Sailability HK's official Facebook page. She thanked everyone for their support, which she credited for making Sailability HK one of the best in the world.
Looking towards her new role, Kay expressed her vision for the future of para sailing, particularly in Asia and less developed countries. "There is work to do. From a good working base, I hope we can encourage more para sailing in Asia and many other less and middle developed countries around the world. Encouraging more MNAS and yacht clubs to support para sailing as we continue to educate people about the talents and abilities of our sailors, increasing diversity in sailing as we have in HK," she stated.
Kay emphasised the universal benefits of sailing and her commitment to making it accessible to everyone. "The benefits of sailing to us all is immeasurable and should be available to all. How will we do this? With a passionate committee willing to share ideas and encourage MNAs around the world to open up and provide opportunities to EVERYONE. Together we can do this!" she concluded, rallying for collective action and inclusivity in the sport.
Sun Hung Kai & Co Around The Island Race 2025
Sailability once again participated in the iconic sailing event, the Around The Island Race, last weekend. This race boasts a rich history dating back to 1864, with 227 boats competing this year. For the Sailability team, the day began at the crack of dawn when the crew assembled at 0500 hours at Hebe Haven Yacht Club. As they made their way from HHYC to the start line, the sun rose over Clear Water Bay. After reaching the start line, the crew hoisted the main sail and positioned themselves near the line. Skipper Tai remarked, “The wind was weak and the tide was strong against us but it was important to get a good start.”
With the race start scheduled for 0840, the waters near the start line became increasingly crowded. In the light wind and strong current, MoHan struggled to cross the line, finally managing to do so, only to be stuck near North Point for nearly an hour. The breeze was so light that it was nearly noon before MoHan could pass Lei Yue Mun, having spent three hours in the harbour. Conditions improved slightly after Lei Yue Mun, with Tai noting, “We headed to Cape D’aguilar with a better speed, and after passing Cape D’aguilar we sailed with the headsails all the way to Cyberport only for the wind to then drop again.” The crew had to work hard, focusing on sail trimming and executing numerous tacks in the light wind.
MoHan re-entered the harbour around 1600 but couldn't reach the finish line near Kellet Island by the 1700 cut-off time despite sailing until the last moment. "We tried our best in the Race," Tai reflected. After an exhausting day, the crew returned to HHYC around 2000 hours, having been on board for a total of 15 hours. "Despite the long day, all crew members enjoyed the race. And we learned as a crew," Tai concluded with determination, "We’ll be back next year!"
Title Sponsor: Sun Hung Kai & Co
Supporting Sponsors: St. James's Place Asia & Middle East, World Maritime Merchants Forum
Partners: Beau-Rivage Palace Lausanne, Sail-World
Hansa World Championships Selection Races
The Hansa World Championships are set to take place in Sydney, Australia in March 2025. Leading up to this prestigious event, Sailability HK held selection races on 5 January, 12 January, and 19 January to determine their representatives. Classes taking part in the selection are: Hansa Liberty, Hansa Singles Male, Hansa Singles Female and Hansa 303 Doubles.
The first selection race on 5 January showcased calm conditions with minimal wind, a stark contrast to what competitors might face in Sydney. Race Officer Paul Wu had a challenging day as the wind conditions fluctuated significantly. The day started with Race 1 in a moderate 8 knots breeze which then diminished nearly to nothing. Between Race 2 and Race 3, the light breeze also shifted direction from north to south-easterly. Despite these variable conditions, Paul Wu managed to complete three races as scheduled, showcasing the adaptability and skill of both the sailors and the race management team.
