Asian Youth Modern Sailing Championship Opens In Sharjah Under Patronage

The Asian Youth Modern Sailing Championship is set to start on 25 December at Al Hamriyah Club, bringing together sailors from 18 countries under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, in the first continental youth event after a six-year pause.

Mohammed Al Obaidli, Secretary-General of the UAE Sailing and Modern Rowing Federation, said organising the Asian Youth Modern Sailing Championship marks an important stage for the sport, as it is the first continental championship held after a six-year suspension caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and reflects strong regional confidence in the UAE’s hosting abilities.

Al Obaidli noted that the decision of the Asian Sailing Federation to award hosting rights to the United Arab Emirates and Al Hamriyah Club shows trust in their capability to run continental championships with high organisational and technical standards, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a reliable venue for major sailing competitions in the region.

The championship is being staged by Al Hamriyah Club in partnership with the UAE Sailing and Modern Rowing Federation, with support from the Sharjah Sports Council and Al Hamriyah Municipality, while sponsoring entities "Ajmal Makan" and "Asas Steel" contribute to event arrangements and logistics that will welcome young sailors from across Asia.

During the official press conference held on Monday, Chairman of Al Hamriyah Club’s Board of Directors, Humaid Al Shamsi, expressed gratitude and appreciation to H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, whose patronage he described as crucial for the success of this Asian Championship.

Al Shamsi explained that hosting this continental gathering fits within the continuing progress of sailing activities at Al Hamriyah Club, which began with its accreditation as an international training centre, then expanded through Arab and international championships and training camps, supported by close cooperation with national sports bodies and local authorities.

Through this edition of the Asian Youth Modern Sailing Championship, Al Hamriyah Club and the UAE Sailing and Modern Rowing Federation aim to provide a strong competitive platform for youth sailors, strengthen the country’s record in organising multi-nation events, and highlight Sharjah’s growing role as a host for regional and international maritime sports.

With inputs from WAM