Oman Sail’s high-performance national squad is heading to Japan for an intensive, eight-day training camp from 16 to 24 September as final preparations ramp up for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. 

Competing under the umbrella of the Oman Olympic Committee, the sailors have worked tirelessly with Oman Sail’s coaching team to earn the opportunity to represent the nation on such a high-profile continental stage. The team’s campaign is proudly supported by Gold Partner EL B&T company with their local strategic partner Al Ramooz National, demonstrating strong private sector commitment to Omani athletic excellence. 

The camp will be led by Team Lead Hashim Hamad Al Rashdi alongside 29er Team Coach Fabrice Jaunet. The four-strong team features established 49er duo Ahmed Ghareeb Al Hasani and Waleed Issa Al Kindi, alongside emerging 29er talents Feras Haitham Al Nabhani and Tamim Sulieman Al Balushi. 

Hashim Al Rashdi, Head Coach Performance and Team Lead, said, "This overseas training block in Japan is a pivotal component of our Asian Games strategy. Under the umbrella of the Oman Olympic Committee and with the valuable backing of EL B&T company, our goal is to acclimatise quickly to local water conditions and refine race tactics. Both our 49er and 29er teams have shown great discipline throughout summer training, and this final camp will sharpen our tactical sharpness right before the Games begin." 

Waleed Issa Al Kindi, 49er Sailor, said, "Representing our nation at the Asian Games under the Oman Olympic Committee is an incredible honour. Ahmed and I have been putting in continuous work to build a solid understanding and maximise our boat speed in the 49er. Training on Japanese waters alongside Coach Fabrice and the 29er team gives us the ideal environment to fine-tune our starting lines and boat handling under match-like conditions." 

Tamim Sulieman Al Balushi, 29er Sailor, added, "Stepping up to represent Oman on the continental stage is a huge milestone for us. Feras and I are eager to make the most of every hour on the water during this training camp in Japan. Having the guidance of Coach Fabrice Jaunet and Hashim Al Rashdi, combined with the support of everyone at home, gives us absolute confidence to push our limits." 

Dr. John (Young Ill) Kim, Group Chairman of ELB&T Ltd, spoke of the company’s pride in supporting the team. He said, “We are honoured to support Oman’s talented national sailors as they prepare for the 2026 Asian Games. ELB&T takes immense pride in backing these exceptional athletes, whose dedication and drive inspire us all. We wish the entire team the very best of success as they represent Oman with excellence and determination, and I extend my warmest support and best wishes to the team as they compete at the Asian Games.”

The pre-event camp will focus on local wind pattern assessment, high-speed skiff tuning, and competitive start routines before the sailors officially transition into the Asian Games regatta venue in Gamagori.