All heroes on deck

Figawi regatta

Figawi teams up with Nantucket nonprofit to give veterans a trip to remember

The charity regatta known as Figawi invites intrepid sailors to race from Hyannis to Nantucket on the traditional kickoff weekend to the Cape and Islands’ summer season.

Among those on board this year will be five sailors who have met greater challenges in their lives: as combat veterans wounded in service to their country.

For the past seven years, Holidays for Heroes has invited a select number of wounded warriors onboard one of the Figawi racing vessels to have the opportunity to take the helm and participate as crew. The veterans and their loved ones stay on the island for a few more days, as guests of Nantucket businesses and restaurants for various events.

This year five “Heroes” will be sailing aboard Bob Solomon’s boat, Perfect Summer. Solomon is a longtime Figawi entrant: He has competed in Figawi for the past 26 years. For the last four years, he has hosted Holidays for Heroes veterans aboard his boat for the regatta, which is recognized not only on the East Coast but also in international circles as a top sailing event.

The mission of Holidays for Heroes is to give back to the nation’s wounded heroes and their families through all-expense-paid vacations to Nantucket. Additionally, the organization’s American Dream Grants provide veterans funding and mentoring to start or improve a business that supports their independence. And through partner Sierra Delta, veterans have the opportunity to be paired with service dogs.