On July 6, almost three years after the passing of George Simpson, the Able Sail Dock was officially dedicated as the George Simpson Landing. The dock at the harbour entrance end of NSC’s W dock was renamed in a ceremony coinciding with the National Capital Cup, NSC’s regatta for sailors with disabilities. George’s sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Robert Fnukal, participated in the ceremony.
George Simpson was the inspiration and first participant in NSC’s fledgling Able Sail Program in 1992, after trying sailing as a recreational activity at an Independence Living Conference in Vancouver, BC. George was a leader in many sports for people with disabilities in Ottawa including Wheelchair Rugby, Wheelchair Curling, Wheelchair Tennis and Wheelchair Table Tennis.
As well as participating in the Able Sail Program, George served on the organizing committee of all three Mobility Cups hosted by NSC and the National Capital Able Sail Association in 2003, 2011 and 2019. George was a founding director and longtime board member of the National Capital Able Sail Association.
A plaque has been mounted on the George Simpson Landing dock locker to inspire all present and future volunteers and participants.
Peter Wood