The World Sailing Board has approved recommendations by the Para World Sailing Committee to appoint the first chair, vice-chair and members of the newly-formed Classification Sub-Committee.

The new body will be responsible for overseeing the global integrity and governance of the athlete classification system and will operate under the direction of the Para World Sailing Committee.

Appointed to the Classification Sub-Committee are:

Helen Mckenzie (NZL) - Chair
Sarah Ross (AUS) - Vice-Chair
Sue Parry (GBR)
Bernard Destrube (FRA)
Jurgen Schwittai (GER)
Stephen Wilson (AUS)
Yoshi Yamada (JPN)
Barbara Caplan (USA)
Jenny Molson (CAN)
Akira Shimzu (JPN)
Pedro Cunha (POR) 
Classification plays a critical role in ensuring fair and credible Para Inclusive competition. As Para sailing continues to grow globally, it is essential that World Sailing’s classification systems meet international standards and reflect best practice.

World Sailing President Quanhai Li welcomed the appointments. He commented, “This is an important step in the global development of Para Inclusive Sailing. Classification is the backbone of the sport and by introducing a new dedicated World Sailing body we are able to support increased participation, stronger governance and an alignment with the highest levels of Para Inclusive sport. The members appointed to the new Sub-Committee are all highly experienced International Classifiers and I commend them for volunteering to drive the sport forward, and the Board for approving their appointments.”  

This year will see significant changes to the Para Sailing classification system to bring it in line with the 2025 International Paralympic Committee Classification Code. This includes the rollout of a new Globocol classification database, which will support more secure record-keeping, clearer tracking of classification history and a smoother experience for sailors, classifiers and organisers. 

The formation of a dedicated Classification Sub-Committee strengthens World Sailing’s commitment to the expansion of Para Sailing participation, from grassroots development programmes to international competition.