Acknowledging the Remarkable Impact and Lasting Impression of Andrew Cassell
With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to Andrew Cassell, a beacon of kindness and progress within our sailing community.
This legendary figure left us in Cowes after battles with a brief illness, where he spent a significant part of his long and extraordinary 83 years.
Andy will forever remain in our memories as a groundbreaking advocate for inclusive sailing, culminating in his gold medal triumph at the 1996 Paralympic Games in Atlanta—the debut of sailing in the Paralympics.
Over half a century, Andy competed with unparalleled precision across various sailing classes, from dinghies to keelboats, Dragons, and offshore racing yachts. He took part in the Three Quarter Ton campaign, finishing third in the prestigious World Three Quarter Ton Cup, and survived the notorious 1979 Fastnet Race, leading his team safely to harbor. Throughout his career, he continued to taste victory, including helming Shadowfax to the Sigma 33 European Championship title and winning the Sonar Nationals in 2006.
Fueled by a desire to reciprocate for the joy he found in sailing, after his Paralympic triumph, Andy co-founded the Andrew Cassell Foundation, serving the unique needs of individuals facing physical disabilities, mental health challenges, and long-term illnesses who aspire to succeed in competitive sailing. Over two and a half decades, this foundation has been a guiding light for countless sailors, with many rising to compete alongside able-bodied athletes at the highest levels of the sport.
Sara Sutcliffe, CEO of RYA, expressed that the loss of Andy would resonate deeply within our sailing community. His lasting legacy lies in championing inclusive sailing, paving the way for countless lives to be changed and inspiring a shared vision of accessibility for all, which we passionately uphold. Our thoughts are with Andy's loved ones, friends, and fellow sailors during this trying time.
Originated as a personal passion-project by Paralympic sailor Andrew Cassell, the Andrew Cassell Foundation primarily aims to empower individuals with disabilities to engage in sailing. Established during his competitive years, the foundation seeks to break down barriers and provide equal opportunities for those who might otherwise be excluded from sailing[1].
The foundation concentrates on launching accessible sailing programs, furnishing adaptive equipment, and striving to generate inclusive environments that accommodate differently-abled sailors effectively[1]. Over the years, its influence has been profound, leading to increased participation and encouragement for differently-abled individuals in sailing, enhancing diversity and accessibility in the sport[1]. The foundation has been recognized for its perseverance in expanding opportunities and boosting the overall quality of sailing experiences for disabled sailors[1].
[1] - Andrew Cassell Foundation: History and Impact - www.inclusivesailing.org/andrew-cassell-foundation
- Despite his accomplishments in various sailing classes, such as dinghies, keelboats, Dragons, and offshore racing yachts, Andrew Cassell's true legacy lies in his tireless advocacy for inclusive sailing, ultimately founding the Andrew Cassell Foundation to empower individuals with disabilities.
- The Andrew Cassell Foundation, a beacon of change within the sailing community, strives to break down barriers, provide equal opportunities, and foster an inclusive environment for differently-abled sailors, significantly increasing participation and diversity in the sport.
