World Sailing is supporting the growth of Para Kiting by hosting the first ever Para Development Program devoted to the class at the fully-accessible Univela Campione in Lake Garda, Italy, from 22-26 June 2022.

Sailors must have previous experience in kiting as this PDP will not be able to introduce complete beginners and must be a classified national sailor already active in a Para Sailing activity or be active but not yet formally classified. Any coaches looking to develop their skills in the area can also apply to be part of the clinic.

How the PDP benefits Para Sailing
World Sailing has developed a Para World Sailing Strategy to increase worldwide para sailing participation to 45 nations on five continents by the end of 2023. Participation has already increased by 30% over the past five years and initiatives like the PDP provide the framework to introduce more sailors to the sport, offer further training to coaches and officials, as well as aligning existing national classification systems with the IPC’s classification for international events.

The PDP has raised awareness of the requirements of para sailing in all classes, and created new opportunities within the sport for athletes, coaches and officials. Currently there are only 11 International Classifiers worldwide, however PDP events in Oman and now in Italy will aim to boost participation at every level to help propel the sport towards reinstatement for the LA2028 Paralympic Games.