As we all know, sailing is a tight-knit community. Sailing is fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers who pour their hearts and souls into making this sport meaningful and impactful for so many.
One of these amazing volunteers was Rhoda Ann Ironside. Ontario Sailing Executive Director Glenn Lethbridge reflected recently on Rhoda’s legacy, sharing:
I met Rhoda at many Ontario Sailing Association events in the early 1980s and she was always talking about supporting youth sailing, and how youth sailing was the life blood of our sport.
Sadly, Rhoda passed away on November 9th, 2011, after many years of dedication to the sailing community. Part of her legacy is has been the support of the old Sail Toronto program, and the start-up of Sail Georgian Bay after hosting Ontario Sailing’s Boom Mobile Program.
In 2012, Ontario Sailing started the Rhoda Ironside Fund to support youth sailing in Georgian Bay. Over the last decade, there have been numerous requests for support, especailly from sailors wanting to take lessons but not having the financial resources, and from sailors wishing to become instructors.
In keeping with the spirit of this Fund, Ontario Sailing is pleased to announce the funding of Learn to Sail programs on Georgian Bay with $4700 in support. Sail Georgian Bay, Midland Bay Sailing Club, Sail Parry Sound, Madawaska Club at Go Home Bay, Little Current Yacht Club, and a new program at the Wiarton Marina will all receive support from the Fund this year.
