Muscat – After an intensive eight-day training block on Japanese waters, Oman sailors are set to begin their campaign at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya.

Led on the ground by Team Lead Hashim Hamad Al Rashdi and coach Fabrice Jaunet, the team will compete across 12 scheduled fleet races from 26 September to 3 October.

The Omani delegation features established 49er skiff duo Ahmed Ghareeb Al Hasani and Waleed Issa Al Kindi, alongside high-potential 29er talents Feras Haitham Al Nabhani and Tamim Sulieman Al Balushi. The team’s continental campaign is proudly backed by Gold Partner ELB&T Ltd, reflecting a vibrant partnership between corporate leadership and national sporting ambition.

After refining their start routines, high-speed skiff tuning, and local wind reading during their pre-event camp, the sailors enter the regatta tactically prepared and with high expectations.

Abdulaziz Salim Al Shidi, Acting Sailing Director at Oman Sail, emphasised the significance of the Games within Oman’s long-term strategy.

He said: “Our participation in the 2026 Asian Games is a proud showcase of Oman Sail’s structured pathway in action. Seeing emerging athletes like Feras and Tamim line up alongside experienced campaigners like Ahmed and Waleed proves that our youth development programmes are producing world-class sailors capable of competing at the highest level.

“Representing the nation under the Oman Olympic Committee is both an honour and a critical stepping stone. With the LA28 Olympic Games on the horizon, every race at this regatta provides invaluable high-pressure experience that brings us closer to our ultimate Olympic ambitions. We are confident that our team will fly the Omani flag with immense pride, discipline, and competitive spirit.”

Dr. John (Young Ill) Kim, Group Chairman of ELB&T Ltd, shared his excitement as the team transitions into official competition. He said, “ELB&T Ltd is extremely proud to stand behind Oman’s national sailing team as they take to the water at the 2026 Asian Games. Supporting these impressive Omani athletes on such a prestigious stage aligns perfectly with our commitment to encouraging excellence, resilience, and international achievement.

“The dedication demonstrated by the sailors and coaching staff throughout their preparation has been truly inspiring. On behalf of everyone at ELB&T, I extend our warmest wishes to the entire squad as they proudly represent Oman and pursue success in Japan.”

Waleed Issa Al Kindi competed at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, with teammate Musab Mohammed Al Hadi where the pair won a historic silver medal. This year’s team will be looking to build on that success and secure more medals for the nation in Japan.

Competing under the umbrella of the Oman Olympic Committee, the four-strong squad will represent the nation at the Kaiyoh Yacht Harbor in Gamagori, facing Asia’s finest sailors in their respective skiff classes, carrying the hopes of the nation, honouring Oman’s rich maritime legacy, and proving that Oman Sail’s sailing pathway has the potential to transform lives of young Omans, starting from community sessions through to the highest levels of the sport.