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Sailing Twice a Week in Oyster Bay!

Updated: Nov 6, 2023

We're excited to share the latest updates on our transformative program, made possible by our partnership with the Stirling Harbor Foundation.

Sean Duclay and Kilian Duclay go sailing with Greenlawn American Legion Commander Trisha Northover and Retired US Army Ranger in Oyster Bay
SailAhead co-founders Sean and Kilian with a Retired US Army Ranger and a US Army Combat Medic and American Legion Post 1244 Commander Trisha Northover

Sailing for Veterans, Thanks to Stirling Harbor Foundation


Our collaboration with the Stirling Harbor Foundation has opened up extraordinary opportunities for veterans seeking a new path to healing and well-being. One of the program's highlights is the chance to sail on classic vessels, some of which have graced the seas for over a century. Among these is the renowned Shields 30 sailboat, a vessel that combines elegance with history. The Stirling Harbor Foundation has set aside two of these Shields for the use of SailAhead, to be crewed by veterans to compete in the classic's racing series each year in Oyster Bay.

We are working with the Foundation to create 4 unique adventure sailing excursions for next year that will last several days each, enabling veterans to discover new ports and bays around the Long Island Sound in a way they never have before!

Sailing Twice a Week: Your Invitation to Freedom


SailAhead is thrilled to offer veterans not one but two opportunities to experience the healing essence of sailing every week in Oyster Bay. These outings aboard the Shields 30 sailboat are much more than just sailing; they represent a journey of rediscovery, self-care, and community.


These sails come in the form of races, out of Oyster Bay Thursday and Friday afternoons. Get in touch if you are interested in joining us as a veteran or experienced skipper!


Calling All Veterans: Your Voyage Awaits


Whether you're an experienced sailor or have never set foot on a boat, SailAhead welcomes all veterans to embark on this life-changing adventure. Your journey begins with an email inquiry to learn more about how you can join us.


We will be teaching the basics of sailing, and get you comfortable sailing at a specific position on the boat so we can build on skills each week. If you are a veteran with sailing experience, we especially implore you to reach out so you can help us expand the program!



Supporting Veterans: Be Their Wind Beneath the Sails


SailAhead believes in the power of community support, and we invite you to be part of this transformative mission. While the Stirling Harbor Foundation's partnership has allowed us to expand our program, we need additional resources to reach more veterans and make an even greater impact.

We urge our community to consider contributing to our cause. Your financial support will directly fund opportunities for veterans to experience the therapeutic benefits of sailing, potentially saving lives and aiding in the recovery from PTSD.


Veteran's sailing to heal post-traumatic stress and depression
The SailAhead crew makes their way to the start

SailAhead's Crew Wins a Race!


On September 21st our Shield was crewed by SailAhead co-founder Sean, volunteer sailor Nikki, and retired United States Marine Corps veterans Brandy and George.


Sean Duclay with Nikki Algierie, George Barbaro, and Brandy Thomas racing in Oyster Bay on a Classic Sailboat to help treat veterans suffering from PTSD and depression..
Herreshoff designed Newport 29, Mischief (L) in first before being passed by SailAhead crewed Shield 30 (R)

Due in part to the favorable weather conditions, and also to the collective sailing skills of the four crew members, the SailAhead powered boat was the first in the fleet to cross the finish line! For some of the crew, this was the first time sailing in years! Although we couldn't have done it without the perfect weather conditions, the crew is proud and motivated to sail more, and improve on our skills in the races to come!



How Can You Help?

  • Donate Today: Your generous donation will directly support veterans and enable us to extend our reach. Every contribution, no matter the size, is a step towards ending the veteran suicide epidemic.

  • Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends, family, and colleagues. Together, we can create a ripple effect that touches the lives of veterans nationwide.

SailAhead is committed to sailing towards a brighter future for veterans, one wave at a time. Join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of those who have selflessly served our nation.


For more information or to inquire about our sailing excursions, please contact us via email.


Your support is the wind beneath our sails, propelling us toward a brighter future for veterans. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey of healing, hope, and transformation.

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