Inclusive Development Programme in Oman – Reflection, Learning and Long-Term Impact

For many participants in Oman, this was their first experience of an international Para Inclusive Sailing environment. They saw championship racing up close, observed how events are run, interacted with international coaches, officials and classifiers, and began to understand what is possible within the sport. 

Case Study – Kristof Stüven (Trinidad and Tobago)

Kristof’s journey is a powerful example of what the IDP is designed to do. 

Coming from Trinidad and Tobago, Kristof entered the programme with limited exposure to international Para Inclusive Sailing and few local reference points for how a pathway might look. Oman offered him access, not just to boats and coaching, but to the wider ecosystem of the sport, with a view to him training as an International Classifier to support the Caribbean region.  

During the week, Kristof spent time observing championship racing, engaging with coaches and officials and supporting the Classification process, and asking questions about classification, equipment, and how other nations structure their programmes. Those conversations, which were often informal and unscheduled were as valuable as any formal session. 

Since returning home, Kristof has remained engaged, motivated and connected. He has continued discussions about classification, explored next steps for training and competition, and begun to act as a point of contact for Para Inclusive sailing development within his region. The impact of the IDP for Kristof was not about immediate performance outcomes, but about confidence, clarity and belonging. 

This is how the IDP creates change – one person, one opportunity, one connection at a time. 

Looking ahead to 2026, the Inclusive Development Programme will continue to evolve. Dates for an IDP in Antigua will be announced shortly, supporting the growth of Para Inclusive Sailing across the Caribbean. It is also confirmed that an IDP will be delivered alongside the 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Championships, informed directly by the lessons learned in Oman. 

Further programmes are planned across Europe and Asia, with opportunities also being explored in Australia. As details are finalised, they will be shared with the community. 

The IDP remains a cornerstone of Para Inclusive Sailing. Its value lies not only in what happens during a week on the water, but in what happens afterwards – when participants return home with new confidence, new connections, and a clearer sense of what is possible.