Scottish Sailors Shine at World Sailing Inclusion Games
by Philippa Howie 10 Dec 2025 06:01 PST
30 November - 8 December 2025
Rory McKinna at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Oman © Vincent Curutchet / World Sailing
The Scottish sailing community is celebrating two standout performances at the 2025 World Sailing Inclusion Games in Oman [30 Nov 2025 - 8 Dec 2025], with Rory McKinna and Murray MacDonald excelling in their respective classes on the global stage.
Rory McKinna, 23, from Stewarton and a University of Dundee student, continued his remarkable run of form by delivering a dominant performance in the Inclusive One Person Championship. Sailing with trademark consistency and resilience, Rory continued his positive run in the Hansa Class following a golden year that already included victories at the World Abilitysport Beach Games in Turkey and in the two person fleet at the Hansa World Championships in Australia.
In further Scottish success, Oban Sailing Club sailor Murray MacDonald, founder and Director of top charity Autism on the Water, showcased his skill and determination in the Intellectual Impairment Championship fleet. Murray's performance highlighted not only his competitive spirit but also his commitment to promoting inclusion and accessibility within sailing - a mission that has defined his work both on and off the water.
There was also wider GBR success, with Lucy Hodges taking gold in the Visually Impaired fleet.
Speaking on his win, Murray said:
"I'm absolutely over the moon. I still can't believe it. It was very competitive out there.
"A great result for my home club, Oban Sailing Club, and a great result for Scotland, along with Rory. I'm so happy!"
Reflecting on his success, Rory said:
"2025 has been a good year. 11 major regattas in four different classes, and several smaller events in between.
"I wasn't really sure what to expect going into the championships. This is a new event and a bit different from other World Sailing competitions. There were a few new faces and sailors I hadn't raced against in years, so I was prepared to play it by ear.
"It's been great to compete as much as I have and, in the process, promote our sport to the disabled community and show that sailing can be for everyone."
Celebrating the results, RYA Scotland CEO Finlo Cottier said:
"The performances Rory and Murray have put in in Oman have been incredible. We've been cheering them on from home, and are so proud of these achievements. They're both incredible advocates for inclusion within sailing, and sport more broadly, making this personal accolade even more meaningful for each of them.
"As RYA Scotland, we thank them both for the positive impact they're making within our sport, and share our congratulations!"
As advocates for inclusion, both sailors continue to push boundaries - whether through grassroots initiatives in Scotland or campaigning for sailing's return to the Paralympic Games.