Oman Sail’s young prospects head to Al Bareh in quest for knowledge

Six of Oman Sail’s brightest young sailing prospects will make their debuts on the international Optimist racing circuit when they take part in the 2014 Al Bareh International Regatta in Bahrain from June 19-23.

The six hopefuls were freshly selected as members of the National Youth Sailing Squad, which is being trained and nurtured as part of Oman Sail’s Omantel Youth Programme. Prior to travelling to Bahrain, they completed a week-long Youth Squad Training Camp at the Oman Sail sailing school in Sur with their coach Sultan Al Zadjali, a race club coach at Mussanah.

Al Zadjali is also making his international debut as a sailing coach having been selected for the exceptional performance and attitude he has demonstrated in developing Oman’s fledgling athletes.
“These children are young yet very talented, and it is an honour to be their coach and companion at such an important and exciting time in their careers,” he said.

“We have traditionally competed successfully at the Al Bareh Regatta. Last year one of our young sailors took gold in the Optimist class and three other Omani sailors finished in the top half of the draw but this year, the sailors are much younger so the emphasis is more on gaining experience than on results.

“This will be their first event abroad so it is an opportunity for them to gain experience of international competition which can be quite daunting as well as some useful exposure to a large international field. Simply put, excellence is their objective and it is mine too.”

Dr Amer Al Rawas, CEO of Omantel wished the six youngsters all success in their endeavours at Al Bareh. He said, “These children are very young and we do not expect to see them on the podium, but we do expect them to try their best in the event and have fun”.

“The Omantel Youth Programme is all about excellence and about making the most of opportunities. We are sure these talented youngsters and their inspirational coaches will make us all proud not just next week but for many years to come. We give you our support and wish you good luck.”