International Judges Clinic in Jeddah enhances the skills of officials across the region

The 2026 Arab Championships - Optimist in Jeddah showed what happens when passion, cooperation, and vision come together.

With the support of World Sailing and the Saudi Sailing Federation, 12 officials from five countries across the region – Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Tunisia – joined a Judges Clinic designed to strengthen skills, build confidence, and open new pathways for development.

Over six days, participants learned side‑by‑side — first in the classroom, then on the water.

World Sailing Instructor, Marina Psychogyiou, Principal Race Officer for the championships, leading the clinic, said, “The clinic consisted of two days of classroom instruction followed by four days of practical regatta participation. This blend of theory and real racing created an environment where everyone could grow, regardless of their starting point.

“The Saudi Sailing Federation played a central role in making this possible. Their commitment to investing in education, welcoming officials from multiple nations, and supporting every part of the event reflects a strong and ambitious vision for the future of sailing in the Kingdom. Their leadership ensured that all personnel involved in delivering the 2026 Arab Championships – Optimist attended the clinic, ensuring a unified understanding of race procedures.”

World Sailing’s involvement brought global expertise, structure, and inspiration. This helped emerging officials understand not only the rules, but the values behind them: fairness, respect, and integrity, which will benefit sailing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and across the region long into the future.

 

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