Charlestown, Nevis — September 30, 2026: Family members, friends, sporting representatives and supporters gathered at the Charlestown Pier on Tuesday, September 29, to wish young Nevisian sailor Elijah Walters well as he embarked on an historic journey to represent St. Kitts and Nevis at the 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Portimão, Portugal.
Walters departed Nevis by ferry for St. Kitts, where he was scheduled to join his coach, Mikhail Rogers, before continuing his journey to Europe. From St. Kitts, Walters travelled onward to London and then to Portugal, where he will compete on the international stage.
The 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Championships will take place in Portimão, Portugal, from October 4 to 10, bringing together sailors from more than 40 nations for a celebration of Para Inclusive Sailing. World Sailing describes the championships as a high-performance platform designed to place sailors with disabilities at the centre of international competition while creating opportunities for both Para-classified and Inclusive sailors to compete alongside one another.
The championships are designed to celebrate “ability over limitation,” providing athletes with an elite platform to compete with purpose, visibility and equity. Through inclusive formats and accessible equipment, the event seeks to break down barriers, challenge perceptions and demonstrate what world-class accessible sport can achieve.
This year’s championship is particularly significant for St. Kitts and Nevis, as the Federation is among the nations making its debut at the event. World Sailing has confirmed that sailors from St. Kitts and Nevis will participate in the 2026 championships, which are expected to feature more than 200 athletes from over 40 countries.
In a brief pier-side ceremony prior to his departure, several representatives took the opportunity to congratulate Walters and offer their best wishes as he prepares to compete on the world stage.
Those present included Dr. William Stones, representing the St. Kitts and Nevis Sailing Association; Dr. Mamata Srinivasan, representing the Nevis Aquatics and Sailing Center; and Siana Leader, representing the Nevis Sports Department.
Walters expressed appreciation to his family, supporters and sponsors for their encouragement and assistance throughout his journey. He also pledged to give his best effort as he represents St. Kitts and Nevis at the international championship.
His participation marks an important moment for sailing in the Federation and highlights the growing opportunities for athletes to compete in inclusive and Para sporting disciplines at the highest international level.
As Elijah Walters sets sail for Portugal, family, friends and supporters across St. Kitts and Nevis will be watching with pride and cheering him on as he carries the Federation’s flag onto the world stage.
St. Kitts and Nevis wishes Elijah Walters every success at the 2026 World Sailing Inclusion Championships.
