Inclusivity in Italy

Cagliari hosts another edition of the Inclusive Development Programme

Just over a week ago, I was on the turquoise waters of Sardinia setting the stage once again for a remarkable celebration of inclusion and sailing excellence during the Inclusive Development Programme (IDP) hosted by World Sailing. The IDP is the cornerstone of the new strategy, and enables us to support emerging and unsupported nations, therefore increasing participation in sailing!

As part of the Sardinia Sailing Cup, the event brought together athletes and nations with a shared goal: to promote inclusivity in sailing and showcase its accessibility to people of all abilities.

The amazing facilities in Cagliari, supported by the FIV.

With amazing support from the FIV (Italian Sailing Federation), and their Para Sailing Academy, we were able to get 19 participants from 7 nations on the water and enable competition by joining the Sardinia Cup.

The 3 medalists; Gauthier, Andrea and Davide.

Victory aboard the Hansa 303 went to France’s Brill Gauthier, who claimed the top spot in the rankings. Italy, however, made its mark with Andrea Quarta and Davide Di Maria earning places on the podium. The women’s division was an all-Italian success, with Nina Corbetta, Alessandra Franchi, and Alessandra Cappellu sweeping the medals.

The IDP was a testament to the growing momentum of Para sailing as a truly inclusive sport. FIV President Francesco Ettorre expressed his gratitude:

“These intense and emotional days have shown us that sailing is truly for everyone, without barriers. This event reflects our commitment to fostering inclusion and building a more accessible future for all.”

Meanwhile, Fabio Colella, FIV National Advisor for Para Sailing, emphasized the broader impact of the IDP:

“The Inclusive Development Programme is not just a sporting event but a clear message: sailing is for everyone. Together, we’re breaking down barriers and proving that inclusion is possible.”

I am so grateful to the FIV, the Para Sailing academy and their incredible team of coaches, as well as the amazing Team behind the scenes that really made this happen; Mirco, Elisa, Valentina and Sara – thank you all for the support and the belief in the difference and impact this program can have.

Despite the many challenges of the year, and the constant battle with negativity, lack of resources and support, I look back on the Inclusive Development Program and remind myself to be proud. I love what this program can enable, and I love coaching, facilitating and most importantly – getting stuff done!!

Being a coach and facilitator is by far the greatest privilege of my role.

The IDP is a beacon of hope, of action, and most of all, inclusivity. It is the foundation of everything we do, and I will keep fighting for it, to keep moving forward and hopefully making a difference.

The fight to have sailing reinstated into the Paralympic Games is really about to build up, and achieving this goal can only be done through collaboration, support and passion.

We are ultimately all in the same boat, and it is important that we remember that.