Para sailing has gained structure, scope, and credibility over the past two years, and this has been a topic of reflection for Hannah Stodel, Para World Sailing Manager, in the monthly letter that World Sailing sends to its affiliates and followers. Where does this growth come from, and how can other sports look to para sailing for their own development? Stodel highlights the importance of classification and the growth of the inclusive development program to explain this evolution.
The new Classification Code of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), in force since January this year, seeks to standardize and harmonize classification systems across the Paralympic Movement. World Sailing has placed compliance at the center of its para and inclusion strategy. In practice, para sailing has strengthened three fronts: full regulatory alignment with the IPC Code, data systems that allow for the traceability of assessments, and a better-trained international network of classifiers.
In competitions such as the Inclusion Championships, teams competing for prizes in the ‘Para’ category must meet the minimum disability classification established.
Inclusive Development Programme
The Inclusive Development Program (IDP) has established itself as a platform for growth, with subsidized clinics, coach training, support for emerging countries, and the removal of barriers to competing internationally. Its focus is clear: “Sailing for all, without limits,” with equal opportunities for athletes with and without disabilities. Currently, more than 30 countries are actively participating in this development ecosystem.
The impact of the program is also reflected in the design of the World Sailing Inclusion Championships, with five classes that combine different functional profiles and needs: from the RS Venture Connect in doubles to sailing for the blind in RS21, to ILCA 6 for athletes with intellectual disabilities. This shows that inclusion has become the cornerstone of the competition.
Brisbane 2032 goal
The Para Inclusive Strategy 2024–2029 sets specific goals: to maintain alignment with the IPC Code, strengthen governance standards, establish a calendar of inclusive events, and expand the international presence of the discipline. This roadmap also includes the integration of inclusive classes in the upcoming World Sailing Championships and the reintroduction of the discipline in the 2032 Brisbane Paralympic Games.
In the short term, the World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Oman will set a new benchmark with more than 200 sailors expected to participate, showcasing a model that combines sporting spectacle, rigorous classification, and real access for all profiles.
