Experienced sports administrator and Oman Sail’s director of sailing, Rashid al Kindi, has been elected to the World Sailing Council (WSC), the apex body of world sailing.

Kindi was elected from Group I, which constitutes West Asia and has ten nations as members. Kindi polled six votes to defeat his rival Jamal Zaal Krishan Almuhairi from the UAE, who received just one vote. Kindi is one of the 28 Group representatives and will serve on the World Sailing Council for the period of 2021-2024.

Among the other Asians elected to the WSC were Qu Chan of China and Abdur Rehman Arshad of Pakistan. 

Speaking after being elected to WSC, Kindi said, “This is a great honour for me to have the opportunity to represent my country. It is a reflection of Oman Sail’s standing in the global sailing community. 

“I thank the World Sailing Council for placing their trust in me and I am looking forward to taking up the role and helping to shape the future of sailing for the next four years and beyond. 

“I look forward to working closely with the sailing’s governing body and gaining a new perspective on international sailing to help Oman sailing continue to progress.”

Mohammed al Amri, Oman’s Maritime Sports Committee chief said, “I have great confidence in Rashid’s ability to contribute to the international sailing scene. He possesses vast experience gained with Oman Sail in organising events, designing sailing programmes and coaching young sailors to maximise their potential. We’re incredibly proud that he has been elected and recognised on the world stage.”

In a statement, Oman Sail said, “Kindi’s appointment strengthens our commitment to empowering the youth of Oman and unlocking development opportunities to build competencies and skill-sets through sailing.

“By hosting and participating high-profile world-class events and international competitions, Oman Sail is also able to showcase the sultanate to a worldwide audience in line with the goals set forth by Vision 2040.”