St. Kitts and Nevis Celebrates Silver Medal at World Sailing Inclusive Championships

The St. Kitts and Nevis Sailing Association (SKNSA) proudly announces that Elijah Walters has won a silver medal at the 2026 World Sailing Inclusive Championships, held in Portimão, Portugal, from October 1–10.

Walters competed in the ILCA 6 event in the Intellectual Impairment Class, completing an impressive 15 races over six days of competition. He received his silver medal during the closing and awards ceremony on Saturday evening, October 10.

His achievement marks a proud moment for Walters, his family, and the sailing community of St. Kitts and Nevis. Throughout the championship, he demonstrated commitment, perseverance, and a strong willingness to learn, making steady improvements with each day of racing while gaining valuable experience on the international stage.

Having sailed with the Nevis Aquatic and Sailing Centre (NASC) for approximately 15 years, Walters’ success reflects his dedication and the importance of creating inclusive opportunities for sailors of all abilities to develop their skills and compete internationally.

A Coach’s Perspective

Coach Nickhail Rogers praised Walters for his ability to learn quickly, respond to feedback, and apply new techniques and strategies on the racecourse.

“I am most proud of Elijah’s ability to take coaching cues and adapt them on the racecourse very quickly. He improved tremendously over the week, thanks in part to competing on consecutive days, his personal drive to perform well, and our work together to strengthen key areas of his strategic and tactical execution.

“This proves that people, regardless of their impairment, are capable of achieving things that make every Kittitian and Nevisian proud of where they come from. It also inspires others to believe in themselves and their goals, because sometimes our biggest ‘bad mind’ is our own beliefs. Achievements like this show that the richest drive comes from within. That is why Elijah has come this far, and why I believe he will continue to grow.”

Rogers also highlighted the challenges Walters faced in Portugal, noting that the sailing conditions differed considerably from those he was accustomed to at home. Despite these differences, Walters adapted quickly and maintained his second-place position through to the end of the competition.

Elijah Walters Returns Home to a Warm Welcome

The main pier at Oualie came alive on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 13, as family members, representatives of SKNSA and NASC, officials from the Department of Sports, and other supporters gathered to welcome Walters home.

Returning from the demanding international championship with a silver medal, Walters was greeted with congratulations and expressions of pride from members of the sailing community and the wider Nevisian community.

During a brief welcome ceremony, Director of Sports Aljay Newton warmly welcomed Walters home and congratulated him on an achievement that has brought pride to Nevis and the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Dr William Stones, a board member of SKNSA, also welcomed Walters and congratulated him on securing second place in his class at the international competition.

Coach Rogers provided an overview of Walters’ intensive training and preparation, as well as his progress throughout the championship. He explained that the conditions in Portugal were significantly different from those Walters typically experiences at home, requiring him to acclimatise quickly. Rogers commended the sailor for adjusting well and maintaining his position among the leading competitors throughout the event.

Nikolas Dupre, President of SKNSA, highlighted the growing opportunities available to young sailors and congratulated Walters on his significant achievement. His remarks underscored the importance of continued investment in sailing development and providing athletes with opportunities to compete on the international stage.

For his part, Walters expressed his gratitude simply, thanking everyone who had supported and encouraged him throughout his journey.

A Valuable International Experience

Walters’ participation in the championship provided much more than an opportunity to compete for a medal. It was a valuable learning experience that allowed him to refine his sailing skills, benefit from coaching, and gain experience competing internationally in a supportive environment.

Throughout the 15 races, Walters welcomed feedback, identified areas for improvement, and worked to apply the lessons learned on the water. His determination to improve was evident throughout the competition, and he entered the championship believing he could win a medal.

Walters expressed gratitude to World Sailing and the organising committee in Portugal for the quality of the equipment, coaching support, and hospitality provided throughout the championship. The opportunity to compete in a well-supported environment contributed significantly to his development and made the experience particularly valuable.

His silver medal stands as a fitting reward for his determination, hard work, and progress throughout the competition.

A Community Effort

SKNSA extends its heartfelt thanks to Coach Nickhail Rogers for his dedication, guidance, and unwavering support of Walters throughout this journey, as well as his continued commitment to developing and supporting sailors across the Federation.

The Association also expresses sincere gratitude to Walters’ parents and grandparents for their continued encouragement and support.

Special thanks go to World Sailing for its support through the Emerging Nations Grant, which helped make Walters’ participation in the international championship possible. SKNSA is also particularly grateful to the Nevis Island Administration’s Department of Sports for its financial contribution towards the trip, which played an important role in making this opportunity a reality.

The Association also recognises the St. Kitts Department of Sports and looks forward to continued collaboration in creating opportunities for local sailors to develop their skills, compete at a high level, and represent the Federation internationally.

SKNSA further acknowledges NASC, individual members of its affiliated clubs, and other private supporters whose generous contributions helped make Walters’ participation possible.

Walters’ silver medal is a true community achievement. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when organisations, families, donors, and members of the sailing community work together to support an athlete and create opportunities for success on the international stage.

SKNSA is deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to this journey and helped Walters proudly represent St. Kitts and Nevis.

Looking Ahead

Walters’ return home with a silver medal is a significant milestone in his sailing journey and a source of inspiration for aspiring sailors throughout the Federation. His achievement highlights the value of inclusive sports programmes, dedicated coaching, family encouragement, and community support in helping athletes reach their potential.

SKNSA congratulates Walters on this outstanding accomplishment and commends everyone who contributed to his success.

Congratulations, Elijah! The Federation is proud of you!