On the eve of the 2022 RS Venture Connect World Championships, the first para sailing competition to ever be held in Oman, event organisers Oman Sail arranged for 32 sailors and coaches to immerse themselves in Omani culture with a unique experience in Muscat.

Starting in the historic Muttrah area of old Muscat, the group had the chance to explore the traditional souq and corniche, where latticed buildings and bustling market stalls are nestled in between the mountains and the Gulf of Oman, the principal port in Oman’s historical maritime trade.

The sailors and coaches then visited the National Museum to learn about Oman’s cultural heritage and see artefacts dating back to the Bronze Age, as well immersive digital experiences and special exhibits in the 14 permanent galleries within the complex.

After pausing for photographs outside the Al Alam Palace in Muttrah, the group then enjoyed a traditional Omani meal. This was an opportunity for the visitors to experience traditional Omani dishes.

Maryam Al Jadidi, Senior Project Manager at Oman Sail, said, “Sport has the power to bring people from different backgrounds together in pursuit of a shared goal, and also provides the opportunity to unite people through shared experiences. Oman is honoured to host the RS Venture Connect World Championships, the first exclusively para sailing event to be held in the country, and a unique opportunity to celebrate this achievement by sharing the personality of Oman with visitors from around the world.”

Racing gets underway tomorrow at the Barceló Mussanah Resort where 36 teams from 18 nations will compete to become 2022 RS Venture Connect World Champion.

The RS Venture Connect World Championships are supported by bp Oman, the Oman Paralympic Committee, Oman Maritime Sports Committee, Oman Air, the Barceló Mussanah Resort, Tanuf, the International Maritime College Oman (IMCO), RS Sailing, and environmental partners Clean Seas and Environment Society of Oman (ESO).