MUSCAT: Oman Sail has officially launched 12 new Hansa 303 para sailing boats on Wednesday as part of its flagship inclusive sailing programme ‘Sail Free’ supported by bp Oman. The ceremony was held at the
organisation’s headquarters under the auspices of Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism.
Dr Khamis bin Salem al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, highlighted that the internationally recognised Hansa 303 boats will significantly enhance Oman’s preparations for upcoming global competitions, most notably the inaugural Para Sailing World Championship, which will be hosted in Al Musannah this December in a first event of its kind worldwide.
Since its launch in 2019, the Sail Free programme has empowered more than 300 participants with disabilities, helping them build self confidence, refine their skills and open new opportunities, this initiative reflects Oman Sail’s commitment to making sport accessible to all, in line with Oman Vision
2040 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Al Jabri stated. Representing bp Oman, Ibrahim bin Hamed al Hinai, Social Investment Manager, reaffirmed the
company’s commitment to supporting community driven initiatives, describing the programme as “a successful platform that has enabled athletes with disabilities to showcase their talents at both national and international levels.”
Khamis al Anbouri, Commercial Director at Oman Sail, explained that the lightweight and highly stable Hansa 303 boats are easy to transport and safe to operate, making them ideal for upcominginternational events.
Oman’s para sailors are set to compete in the Asian Para Sailing Championship in India this October, the ANOC World Beach Games in Turkey, Musannah Race Week and the Para Sailing World Championship in Oman. The event also featured inspiring testimonies from Omani para sailors, including Mohammed al Shukairi and Ghalia al Jabri who spoke about how sailing has transformed their lives by boosting confidence, independence and community integration.
Currently, Oman Sail in partnership with bp Oman operates a fleet of 18 boats dedicated to para sailing including 8 RS Venture and 12 Hansa 303 as part of its ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and expand sporting opportunities for all.
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