Sunday 22 / June / 2025
Muscat: Oman Sail's SailFree national para sailing team, which comes as part of the SailFreeprogramme, in partnership with bp Oman, has achieved remarkable success at the Hansa UK National Championship in Weymouth, securing 2nd and 3rd placements on the podium against international competition.
The SailFree squad demonstrated exceptional skill with Ali Said Al Ghusaini and Sami Salim Al Sulaimi claiming second place, while Hasan Haidar Al Lawati and Adil Salim Al Siyabi earned third place honors. Four Omani crews participated in the event, including Sultan Mohammed Al Wahaibi, AlMuthana Hamed Al Maamari, Zaher Khalfan Al Atbi, and Raiyan Abdullah Al Mujaini, showcasing the nation's growing para sailing talent. The team was led by Nasser Salim Al Maashari, with coaching support from Haitham Saif Al Wahaibi and Akram Adaiyam Al Wahaibi.
Khamis Al Anbori, Acting Commercial Director of Oman Sail commented: "This outstanding performance reflects the dedication of our sailors and the strength of our development programme. These athletes continue to prove that sailing is a sport for all, and we're proud to see them representing Oman on the international stage."
Ibrahim Al Hinai, Social investment manager at bp Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar further commented: “The team's success follows the recent launch of SailFree's second edition this year, which continues the programme's pioneering role as the Middle East's first para sailing initiative. The programme was first established in 2019 and since thenSailFree has become a regional model for inclusive sports development, having already introduced over 200 athletes with disabilities to competitive sailing.
It is worth noting that the SailFree team will compete in several major events including the Oman Sailing Championship, Mussanah Race Weekand the inaugural World Sailing Inclusion Championships. Full results are available at: sailwave.com/results/WPNSA/2025_Hansa_Nationals.htm
