World Sailing has announced the appointment of 11 members to its newly-established Classification Sub-Committee. The group will oversee the global integrity and governance of athlete classification in Para Sailing. It will work under the direction of the Para World Sailing Committee.
Helen McKenzie (NZL) has been named Chair, with Sarah Ross (AUS) as Vice-Chair. Other members include: Sue Parry (GBR), Bernard Destrube (FRA), Jurgen Schwittai (GER), Stephen Wilson (AUS), Yoshi Yamada (JPN), Barbara Caplan (USA), Jenny Molson (CAN), Akira Shimzu (JPN), and Pedro Cunha (POR).
World Sailing President Quanhai Li said the new appointments mark “an important step in the global development of Para Inclusive Sailing.” “Classification is the backbone of the sport,” he said. “By introducing a new dedicated World Sailing body, we can support increased participation, stronger governance and alignment with the highest levels of Para Inclusive sport.”
All members are experienced International Classifiers with backgrounds that support the technical and ethical standards required for international competition. Significant updates to the classification system are expected in 2026. These changes aim to align with the 2025 International Paralympic Committee Classification Code.
A key feature will be the launch of the Globocol classification database. It will provide secure records, improved tracking, and a better experience for sailors, classifiers, and event organisers.
The new Sub-Committee reinforces World Sailing’s commitment to building Para Sailing from grassroots to elite levels.
