These are designed to enable people with all levels of disability to enjoy sailing as a recreation activity or competitive high performance endeavor.
[2] The organization states sailing "promotes freedom and independence" for people with disabilities through the opportunity to take part in an exciting and challenging outdoor sport.
British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher had originally presented the boat to Rick Hansen during Expo '86 in Vancouver, celebrating his Man in Motion world tour.
The major breakthrough for the sport came in 1993 with the addition of (mouth-operated) sip n’ puff controls, which are connected to a power assist system.
The addition of a portable, modular sip n’ puff system in 1998 – which can be dropped into a boat when needed – adds to the versatility of the vessel.