By Richard Rhinehart
August 19, 2014, Smith Point County Park, New York – Athletes from the 2014 Coastal Team Challenge from national non-profit World T.E.A.M. Sports are enjoying dinner and camping at Smith Point County Park this evening, following 12 nautical miles of travel by sea kayak along the southern coast of New York’s Long Island.
Under a brilliant blue summer sky with temperatures in the low 70s, the teams of developmentally and physically disabled athletes and able-bodied athletes left Westhampton Beach and paddled along the coast using Hobie two-person Mirage Oasis kayaks. Remaining within sight of the shore, the teams enjoyed calm seas and light winds for their journey.
Following dinner, the teams will camp out under the stars on the beach, before Wednesday’s early start. For the second and final day of the Challenge, teams will have the option of selecting a 14 nautical mile paddle or following a shorter eight nautical mile route to Patchogue. The Challenge will conclude with a late afternoon celebration and dinner at the Dublin Deck with friends, families and followers.
Sponsors and partners for the 2014 Coastal Team Challenge include Independent Group Home Living Program, American Portfolios Financial Services, TimeCapital and Capital One Bank. Each partner provides valued support for the Challenge, from sponsorship funding to logistical support to volunteer assistance.
The Coastal Team Challenge from World T.E.A.M. Sports was postponed one week owing to inclement weather on Long Island, New York. Photograph by Alex Rohman.
The sea kayaks are readied for the start of the 2014 Coastal Team Challenge. Photograph by Van Brinson.
Team members for the 2014 Coastal Team Challenge pose for a group photograph prior to the start of the event. Photograph by Van Brinson.
Coastal Team Challenge teams paddle and pedal the kayaks to Smith Point County Park, along the southern coast of Long Island. Photograph by Van Brinson.
First rest stop for the Coastal Team Challenge athletes. Photograph by Van Brinson.
Team members stand along the beach at the lunch break. Photograph by Van Brinson.
Coastal Team Challenge athletes enjoy their coastal journey. Photograph by Van Brinson.
Teams gather to celebrate the completion of the first day of the Coastal Team Challenge. Photograph courtesy Van Brinson.