We are gearing up for the Sailing4Parkinson’s Regatta for Resilience April 11 & 12, 2026. Modern Sailing is an Ambassador for the inaugural event. Today, we are excited to open enrollment for our teams, and we’re featuring one of the first members to volunteer his expertise: Modern Sailing Member and Club Sail Skipper Geoff Love.
Geoff’s decision to step up as a Skipper for one of the Modern Sailing teams is deeply personal. For him, this regatta is more than a race. It’s a tribute to his sailing mentor and friends, and the therapeutic power of the sport. Scroll down to learn who inspires Geoff's "why."
At a Glance: Sailing4Parkinson’s Weekend
Saturday, April 11: Join the Sausalito Day Cruise-out or a special Club Sail.
Sunday, April 12: The Regatta for Resilience. Enrollment is LIVE for crew spots on Modern Sailing teams.
Who can join? Members and non-members alike! Scroll down to our FAQ Section here.
The Impact: 100% of Regatta enrollment fees go directly to Parkinson’s research and support.
Photo: Anduril in Ayala Cove flying flags from some of the countries she’s visited.
WHY I'M SAILING 4 PARKINSONS - Geoff Love:
Geoff’s "why" begins with the story of Don Sandstrom Sr. (1937–2013). Diagnosed with early-stage Parkinson’s at age 37, Don didn't retreat from his dreams. Instead, he was motivated to complete the build of his Cross 40 trimaran and circumnavigate the globe twice under sail with his wife and teenage sons Erik and Don Jr.
Geoff had the privilege of sailing with Don Jr. and family on that very same trimaran, Anduril, in French Polynesia, Hawaii, and here on the San Francisco Bay. Don Sr. and his wife Joanne would occasionally sail with them on the Bay. Don showed Geoff early on that the water can be a place of immense strength for those facing the disease.
Bonds Formed on the San Francisco Bay
The mission hit even closer to home through Geoff’s own peer group. Decades ago, Geoff met two of his dearest friends during sailing classes. Today, one of those friends is living with Parkinson’s.
"It is more than disquieting to have this disease immediately within one’s peer group," Geoff says. "Both of the immediate Parkinson’s cases that have affected me are directly tied to my sailing. With Modern Sailing School & Club stepping up to be an Ambassador for the event, I couldn’t not support them and this cause."
The Best Medicine: Vitamin Sea
Sailing requires focus, balance, and community: elements that can be life-changing for those living with Parkinson's. Geoff notes that while the disease can bring fatigue and apathy, the sailing environment offers a unique refuge.
"Sailing can be competitive, social, physical, relaxed, academic and every permutation in between. There are few age or physical restrictions that cannot be accommodated in some way. If that person loves the water and a breeze in the sails, there’s a refuge for them to contribute and enjoy themselves. It’s the best medicine available."
Pay It Forward: A Call to Our Community
Geoff’s message to those considering joining the regatta or donating is simple: Pay it forward. "You may not know anyone with Parkinson’s, but given the very high prevalence of this disease, it’s just a matter of time before you do," he says. "And you’re going to want a better forecast for them, and their loved ones, than is currently available."
How to Participate: April 11 – 12, 2026
We have designed a full weekend of activities so that everyone in our community can contribute, regardless of racing experience.
Saturday, April 11: Sausalito Sailing4Parkinson’s Day | World Parkinson's Day
- Sailing4Parkinson’s Club Sail - 10AM: Aboard Ry Whitt (Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 419) from 10am - 3:30pm. Open to both members and non-members.
- Sausalito Day Cruise-out: Members can charter a boat and participate in the official cruise-out. Percentage of proceeds to benefit the cause.
- "Fête de la Baie" Gala - 6PM: Cocktail/Formal Fundraising Event & Silent Auction at Corinthian Yacht Club, Tiburon
Sunday, April 12: The Regatta for Resilience
- Enroll as Crew: Join one of our official Modern Sailing Race teams! Open to both members and non-members.
- Post-Race Soirée/Celebration: Corinthian Yacht Club, Tiburon
- Impact: Enrollment is $150; 100% of proceeds benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation and PANC.
> Enroll to be Crew for Sunday's Regatta Here
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to rent a boat for the Regatta?
- No. Modern Sailing registers the boats. You will be assigned to a team and notified via email two weeks before the event.
- Can I be the skipper?
- For race events Modern Sailing vessels must be skippered by approved Modern Sailing Race coaches. We welcome your participation as race crew members.
- I have never participated in a race. Can I join?
- If you've sailed before but haven't raced, Sunday is for you. If you've never sailed, Saturday's events are your best bet.
- Do I need to be a member of Modern Sailing?
No. Crew spots are open to Members and non-members. - How can I support if I can't participate that weekend?
You can donate directly to The Neptune Project by clicking this link. Every donation supports critical research and local services for those living with Parkinson's. -
Related Links:
> Rally the Fleet: Join Modern Sailing in the Sailing4Parkinson's Regatta for Resilience
> Visit the Sailing4Parkinson's website
> Read Bridging Waters: An MSC Member's Mission for Parkinson's Awareness, Inspired by Bertrand Delhom
> Read more about Don Jr. and Geoff’s 50-knot Farallones finish at NorCal Sailing
