August 13, 2024
2 minutes reading time
Braassemermeer, The Netherlands is hosting the 2023 Allianz World Para Sailing Championships from 11th to 166th August 2023. With 70 sailors from 24 countries. Are racing across 4 Paralympic sailing disciplines. Paris 2024 Paralympic Sailing Competition places will be awarded as well as 4 World Championships Medals
Setting Sail for the World: Japan's Journey from Grassroots to Global Championships - by Takumi Niwa
Japan, with its impressive fleet of nearly 300 Hansa boats, has been fostering inclusive grassroots sailing activities for over two decades. From children to retirees, everyone has found joy and camaraderie in this vibrant community. Hansa sailor Takumi Niwa shares his experience.
This year, through the Japan Sailing Federation, the Member National Authority, Japan has embarked on a mission to select and train elite sailors for international competitions. Leading this initiative is me, Takumi Niwa. Last year, I represented Japan at the Allianz World Sailing Championships 2023, The Hague, in The Netherlands, and proudly brought home a silver medal.
This achievement has ignited a spark in our team, inspiring everyone to aim even higher.
This year, nine talented sailors have been chosen, with five set to compete on the international stage. Many of these discovered sailing through local Hansa inclusive activities as adults, meaning they first need to grasp the fundamentals and rules of sailing. Additionally, since they juggle full-time jobs during the week, their training is confined to weekends, resulting in limited practice time.
Despite these challenges, our team is determined to excel. We regularly hold online sessions to study the rules and discuss strategies. I am always available to answer their questions and share my knowledge, aiming to elevate the entire Japanese team.
In July, we held our first intensive training camp in Hiroshima, the only opportunity this year for the entire team to train together. With a focused training program I devised, we tackled each challenge one by one to improve our skills. The staff from Hiroshima’s “Abino Kai” offered invaluable support, ensuring everything ran smoothly. Additionally, the “Piccola Club” from Enoshima has been instrumental, providing boats and support for our regular practice sessions.
Thanks to these long-established local activities, we are gradually building an environment where our sailors can compete on the world stage. Representing all of Japan, my teammates and I are excited to showcase our skills and determination in upcoming international championships.
Stay tuned for more updates on our journey as we set sail towards global success!