The first ever Caribbean Inclusive Development Program (IDP), at the National Sailing Academy, Antigua, brought together coaches, sailors and program leaders from across the region from June 21-27, 2026.
The program combined four days of intensive development with the inaugural Caribbean Inclusive Sailing Championship (June 24-27), sailed in RS Venture Connect boats.
Representatives from 10 countries across the Caribbean and South America came together, including Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Chile, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Kitts & Nevis, the British Virgin Islands and Antigua & Barbuda. In total, 23 sailors, coaches and programme leaders spent the week sharing knowledge, developing coaching expertise and expanding opportunities for para and inclusive sailing throughout the region.
At the heart of the program was the RS Venture Connect. Designed specifically for inclusive racing, the stable, self-righting keelboat, combined with its innovative Seated Control System, enables sailors with a wide range of physical, sensory and intellectual impairments to navigate using learned tactical thinking, teamwork and sailing skill. This in turn allows them to compete on equal terms alongside able-bodied sailors.
Leading the program was Hannah Stodel, para world sailing manager at World Sailing, who worked with coaches from across the Caribbean. During the week, every session on the water was matched by discussions ashore. Coaches learned from each other, sailors gained skills and independence, while volunteers, organizers and supporters all played an essential role in creating an environment where everyone could succeed.
The program was originally created by Dan Jaspers, RS Venture Connect international class manager, with the vision of growing para sailing through education, mentorship and community. Stodel has helped shape and expand the initiative internationally.
