SAILING HANNAH

Every so often, despite the best planning and organisation, something slips. This week, I missed an email from a supplier about shipping equipment to the Wingfoil Test in Sardinia. It was one message, but with big consequences. I am working to resolve it – perhaps successfully, perhaps not, but either way, I own that mistake.

I want to be clear: this doesn’t come from a place of excuse, but of perspective. Because while one email may have been missed, there is a huge amount of work happening behind the scenes that often isn’t visible.

In recent months I have been leading the global participation data pull, chasing sailors and Member National Authorities for the information we need to strengthen our case. At the same time, I’ve been revising our classification rules to bring them in line with the new international code, while also driving forward research projects that will modernise our systems and expand the reach of classification. Alongside that work, we are exploring new pathways for athletes with intellectual impairments to access sailing, opening the doors wider than ever before.

Another part of my role is working to secure the best possible stage for our Para Inclusive classes to compete on, at the same level as their Olympic counterparts, with the visibility and respect they deserve. That means endless meetings with event organisers such as Oman Sail, often firefighting issues in real time, to ensure the Inclusion Championships and other major events are viable and well-run. It also means supporting multiple World Championships across different classes, while constantly re-budgeting and re-working the numbers to stretch every penny in support of participation and emerging nations and growing our sport. All of this sits alongside the preparation of board papers, committee materials, and the daily flood of meetings, calls, and urgent requests that keep the sport moving forward.

It is a privilege to be at the centre of this work, but it is also a huge challenge to keep every ball in the air. The good news is I am not doing it alone anymore. Having Leo join recently as a Para assistant is a huge step forward. Already his support has been invaluable, helping to manage the heavy flow of administration and coordination that underpins all these projects. With him on board, I am hopeful we can build more capacity and keep pushing ahead without burning out.

And yet – I am still human. I do my very best every single day, but like anyone, I will occasionally get things wrong. What matters is not perfection, but resilience – the willingness to acknowledge mistakes, learn, and move forward stronger.

In recent weeks we have seen tangible progress. The Inclusive Development Program continues to show its true value globally, and nowhere is that clearer than in India. What began as a single participant to our Singapore programme in 2023 has now grown into the Asian Inclusive Sailing Series, which next heads to the Royal Mysore Yacht Club. To see sailors from across Asia come together through a programme I helped to develop is both humbling and motivating. It is a reminder that the long hours, the difficult choices, and the sheer persistence matter – because they translate into real opportunities for sailors on the water.

Beyond India, registration is open for the first World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Oman. The Classification projects are gaining traction, including exciting work on intellectual impairment. Our Para inclusive classes are preparing for international competition with real momentum. None of this happens by chance. It is the result of collaboration, resilience, and a shared belief that inclusion in sailing is worth every ounce of effort.

I know frustrations can run high, and it is easy to focus on what isn’t perfect. I understand that – because we all want the best for sailors. But I also ask people to remember that there are humans behind the work. Abuse and hostility don’t help me, or anyone, keep fighting for this community. What does help is support, understanding, and the shared belief that we are all working towards the same goal.

So yes, I missed one email. But that does not erase the progress being made, nor the passion and commitment that drives this work. Para inclusive sailing is bigger than any single mistake – and I remain fully committed to giving everything I can to build the opportunities our sailors deserve.

At the end of the day, I would rather be the person who tries, stumbles, and learns than the one who never tried at all.