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The Indian Kayaking
and Canoeing Association feels a great sense
of pride and honor after the success of the first National Sea Kayak and Stand-Up
Paddling Competition that was held in
Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu last September from the 08th to the 10th of September
2023. Hosting such competitions in India helps to
promote water sports and encourages more people to participate in them. It also provides a platform
for local athletes to showcase their talents on a national stage and gain
recognition. Moreover, these events boost tourism and contribute to the local
economy by attracting visitors and participants from different regions.
The competition also
plays a crucial role in supporting youth development by inspiring young
individuals to pursue water sports as a career or hobby. Through participation,
young athletes can learn valuable skills such as teamwork, discipline, and
perseverance. Additionally, the event creates opportunities for mentorship and
coaching, helping to nurture the next
generation of talented athletes.
It has been reported by association members that the Sea Kayak and Stand-Up Paddling Competition has not been
accepted by promoters and other government bodies. To ensure the growth and
popularity of water sports across the nation, it is essential to make these
competitions more inclusive by providing
resources and training facilities to states with limited access to water
bodies. By doing so, athletes from all regions can have equal opportunities to
participate and excel in these sports. This inclusivity can lead to a more
diverse pool of talent, enriching the competitive landscape
and fostering a sense of unity and shared enthusiasm for water sports in
India.
Under the state
associations, state level competitions were conducted across the country last year, while the national competition was held in
Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, in September 2023. Many teams and individual athletes
participated in the competition from different states. Corporate sponsorship
helped make the sports event popular. The
winners of the national competition were awarded prizes and recognition.
Senior member of the
Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association informed that the winners of this
national competition will be competing in the Run Ocean 2024 ICF world ranking
ocean racing canoe competition, which is going to take place in November 2024 in Saint
Gilles, Reunion, France. Rishabh, Sagar, Aabhat, Bhavika Sharma, Revanth, Anuj,
and Gurbachan Singh have been selected to compete in this event.
The event was a great
success and was attended by thousands of people.
It provided a platform for athletes to showcase their talent. The main
competition in the individual events was between Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and
Haryana. The winners of the main events are Krishnan from Kochi Kerala, Anuj
from Kutch Gujrat, Bhavika Sharma from Panchkula Haryana, Aabhat from
Nagapattinam Tamil Nadu, Rishab from Panchkula Haryana, Akshdeep from
Chandigarh, Gurbachan Singh from Kurukshetra Haryana, Sagar from Karnal Haryana
and Revanth from Udupi Karnataka.
The atmosphere at the
competition was electric, filled with excitement and anticipation as athletes
and spectators gathered to witness the thrilling events. The vibrant energy was
palpable, with cheers and applause echoing throughout the venue as competitors
showcased their skills and determination. Colorful banners and enthusiastic
supporters added to the festive ambiance, making it a memorable experience for
everyone involved. There's a lot of hope that Indian athletes participating in
this competition in France this year will win.
By Sanjeev Kumar
President
Haryana Association of Rowing and Canoe
