Photo Collections

Historical Photos

Facilities

Steele Model Pavilion

East Wing

Exhibitions

Sea of Adventure

Extraordinary People

About Nick Scandone

On October 19, 2010 Newport Harbor Nautical Museum introduced its newest exhibit, Extraordinary People, an ongoing presentation of diverse and iconic heroes of the sea. The exhibition is a retrospective of local hero, the late Nick Scandone, a Paralympic gold medalist in sailing. A celebratory reception and fundraiser was held at the museum from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Gary Jobson, President of U.S. Sailing delivered a special presentation in Nick’s honor and was joined onstage by past, present and future sailing Olympians and Paralympians.

Nick’s remarkable story traverses yacht racing, overcoming adversity and the path to Paralympic achievement. Born in Santa Ana, California, his love of sailing began in the Newport Beach Junior Yacht Racing program. Later in life and in the midst of a successful sailing career, Nick was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a disease of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. With this life altering development, Nick continued to race and focus on the Paralympics. He qualified for the Paralympics in 2008 and sailed to gold that summer in Beijing. Nick’s condition continued to progress and ALS claimed his life in January 2009.

Extraordinary People at Newport Harbor Nautical Museum showcases commemorative items from Nick’s life and career. On display is his Paralympic gold medal and Paralympic keepsakes including his Paralympic watch, ring, trading pins, wall scroll and spinnaker. Medals, awards and trophies from Nick’s multiple sailing achievements are on view. Press clippings, news coverage and a video montage provide a further look into his story and successes. Nick Scandone, an extraordinary person and an inspiration for all to reach their dreams.

Join Our Email List