The Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation (JGASF), based in Chicago, Illinois, stands as a beacon of inspiration within the sailing community for their unwavering support of adaptive athletes within the sport. Founded with the mission of teaching people with disabilities the sport of sailing, the Foundation has consistently demonstrated its commitment to providing transformative experiences on the water. This year, it will host the 2024 Independence Cup / U.S. Para Sailing Championship, an event that epitomizes the spirit of inclusivity and competitive excellence.
Hosting a US Sailing Championship is no small feat, but Peter Goldman, who runs the Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing Foundation (named after his father, Judd Goldman), offers words of wisdom for those considering taking on this rewarding challenge.
“In order for sailing to expand and reach more people, it’s important that organizations take the initiative and become involved in spreading the word about the benefits of sailboat racing. By hosting a championship, you can help to achieve these goals.”
His advice is rooted in the belief that inclusive sailing events can significantly impact participants and the broader community. JGASF’s efforts to host the U.S. Para Sailing Championships exemplify this philosophy, showcasing their role as leaders in adaptive sailing.
For the Foundation, the most rewarding aspect of hosting such events is witnessing the personal and skill development of the sailors.
“You play a part in encouraging the sailors to become more active in sailing and racing. You can watch sailors improve their skills in a very short time,” Goldman shares.
In other words, by providing a supportive and educational environment, a Championship Host doesn’t just provide a venue; they enhance the future of the sport, empowering sailors to push their boundaries and achieve new heights.
The Independence Cup became US Sailing’s national championship for disabled sailors in 1989. Today the US Sailing Championship event is known as the U.S. Para Sailing Championship, while the Independence cup has become a standalone annual event owned by JGASF. Many competitors have gone on to represent the United States in the Paralympic Games including Nick Scandone, gold medalist at the 2008 Paralympics. Typically, the event is sailed in singlehanded, doublehanded, and triple handed divisions, with the type of boats determined by the host and US Sailing.
Every three years, the JGASF has hosted the U.S. Para Championship within its annual Independence Cup, attracting 40- 50 sailors from across the country who consider these races to be the pinnacle of the sport The entire professionally maintained fleet of 20 boats are available at no cost to competitors. The regatta is held in downtown Chicago at Burnham Harbor.
Sailors can choose to compete in just the Independence Cup or in both Championships. For some newer sailors, this may be the first time they will be competing in a national Para sailing championship.
This sense of community and shared achievement is at the heart of their mission. As they prepare to welcome competitors from across the nation, the Foundation looks forward to fostering camaraderie, competition, and a deepened love for the sport of sailing.