Saint Vincent and the Grenadines makes history at World Sailing Inclusion Championships

Visually impared SVG sailor Lorna Bacchus at the helm, crewed by Sacrlett Hadely - World Sailing Inclusion Championships at Portimão, Portugal © Gonçalo Melo Reis

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines proudly marked a historic milestone as visually impaired sailor Lorna Bacchus, crewed by Scarlett Hadley, represented the nation for the first time at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Portomeo, Portugal.

The World Sailing Inclusion Championships is a flagship international event designed to bring together athletes of all disabilities and abilities to compete on a level playing field. The event emphasises skill, teamwork, and the unifying power of sport. With training, racing, and community engagement, the championships showcase how sailing can be inclusive and inspiring for everyone.

Bacchus and Hadley were invited to join the World Sailing Inclusion Development Program which provided three days of intensive race training, focusing on understanding tides and wind shifts, refining starting techniques and improving boat speed and sail trim in unfamiliar boats

Visually impared SVG sailor Lorna Bacchus at the helm, crewed by Sacrlett Hadely - World Sailing Inclusion Championships at Portimão, Portugal - photo © Gonçalo Melo Reis

These sessions prepared them for six days of racing against challenging conditions. The Vincentian team faced light winds and strong tidal currents testing their tactical awareness, which required resilience and teamwork. The team steadily improved their communication, boat handling, and decision-making, achieving their best result in the final race with a top 10 finish, and meeting their goal of improving each day.

Lorna Bacchus said "As a visually impaired sailor, this championship was both challenging and empowering. Every race taught us something new, and I am proud to represent SVG on this world stage."

Scarlett Hadley added, "The environment was incredibly supportive. We grew as sailors and as teammates, and we hope our journey inspires others back home."

SVG Sailing Association President Jenny Trumble remarked, "Lorna and Scarlett's participation marks a historic milestone for Vincentian sailing. Their resilience and progress embody our vision of inclusivity and growth, and we are proud to see SVG represented at this global championship."

Visually impared SVG sailor Lorna Bacchus at the helm, crewed by Sacrlett Hadely - World Sailing Inclusion Championships at Portimão, Portugal - photo © Gonçalo Melo Reis