Singapore – strategy, stress, sailing and struggles.

Championing Inclusivity in Sailing

The past few months have been crazy busy with lots of activity, growth, and most importantly spreading the message of inclusivity in Singapore and much further afield.

My journey in Singapore started at the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club with the Inclusive Development Program (IDP).

This year, 23 participants from 10 countries joined us, guided by myself and the incredible expertise of Coach Grant Alderson. Together, we delved into the technicalities of race craft, tactics, strategy, and reinforcing key skills for sailors and coaches alike.

Delivering sessions, and doing what I love most – coaching!

I couldn’t be prouder of how the IDP has grown; it’s becoming a cornerstone of World Sailing’s Para Inclusive Strategy, showing its value in empowering sailors and fostering inclusion. Every edition of the IDP, the program strengthens its impact, proving that sailing truly is a sport for everyone. Given that I have only been running the program for just over a year since starting at World Sailing, I’m astonished at just how impactful it has been, with 31 nations having been through the program- just 1 country short of the target for the IPC participation numbers. Who would’ve thought that a small program I originally figured could offer access to coaching could pack such a punch!

The sailors getting ready to hit the water for the AISS

Building on the momentum of the IDP, the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club hosted the Asian Inclusive Sailing Series, a direct outcome of the 2023 IDP. Thanks to the incredible work of Yuki Hagiwara, member of the Para World Sailing Committee and the supporting sponsor Metazone, this series has established itself as a regional competition platform, enabling more people to access racing and accumulate crucial ranking points.

This year, 19 participants from 8 countries, ranging in age from 10 to 72, took to the water. The diversity among competitors was inspiring, with sailors representing a vast spectrum of abilities. Together, they embodied our message that sailing is for everyone.

Congratulations to the Malaysian team, who emerged as overall winners!

Witnessing such a range of competitors on the start line reinforces why I’m so passionate about creating opportunities and encouraging global participation in the sport.

A huge thank you to the President, Vice Presidents and Board members for celebrating this moment with the Para Inclusive community.

By far the most rewarding moment of the AISS was the President and Vice Presidents as well as the Board of World Sailing all arriving to support the prizegiving; a real message to the sailors that they are a part of World Sailing, and that Para Inclusive sailing is no longer a stand alone entity- we are all sailors, and we are all in the same boat.

I am incredibly thankful that this event has come to life in just a few months, and incredibly grateful to everyone that believed in it.

With my partner in crime, Rebecca, getting ready to change venue!

After the Asian Inclusive Sailing series, it was time to transition to the Suntec Convention Centre for the World Sailing Annual Conference—a marathon of meetings, decisions, and strategy. The staff all poured relentless energy into making it all happen, and while it was exhausting, and at times frustrating, it was equally rewarding.

On Wednesday, I hosted the Para World Sailing Committee meeting, which was hugely successful. Of course, there are always those that bring negativity and nothing else to the table, but despite the naysayers, it was heartening to be recognized for my dedication to inclusivity and to see the Inclusive Development Programs and Para Inclusive Strategy gaining traction.

A key focus of the PWSC and myself remains meeting the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) requirements for sailing’s reinstatement to the Paralympic Games—a mission I am deeply passionate about, and a target that fuels my strength to continue in my role at World Sailing.

Participants of the Development Symposium

After six gruelling days of the conference, we jumped straight into the World Sailing Development Symposium. This two-day event brought together the sailing community for workshops, discussions, and idea-sharing.

One of the highlights for me was facilitating a workshop on reimagining event hosting. I challenged participants to think beyond traditional formats, embrace inclusivity, and design events that welcome everyone. It was inspiring to see so many people open to rethinking their approaches.

After nearly three weeks away, I returned home utterly exhausted but determined to continue to fight for what I believe in. These experiences remind me why I remain steadfast in my commitment to creating an inclusive future for sailing, but also motivate me to continue on despite the extreme negativity and personal attacks I have been receiving of late.

There are moments when progress feels slow, and some people still struggle to see the value of an inclusive strategy, but I refuse to give up. Every event, every Inclusive Development program, and every conversation adds another layer to the foundation we’re building for a sport that truly welcomes all.

Thank you to everyone who shared this journey with me—your support means the world to me.

Onward to the next challenge!