Shillong: The Umiam Sailing Club (USC) and UDAY for Sailors Foundation, in collaboration with the Yachting Association of India (YAI), inaugurated the 2nd North-East Regatta 2024 with an opening ceremony held on April 3 at the Umiam Sailing Club, Orchid Lake Resort, Watersports Complex, Shillong.
The event was graced by Donald. P. Wahlang, IAS, Chief Secretary of the Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished guests included LR Bishnoi, Director General of Police, Lt. General TSA Narayanan (Retd.), Vice President of YAI, Robert Lyngdoh, Member Secretary of the Umiam Sailing Club, Col. Alok Yadav, Technical Director of the 2nd North-East Regatta, Comde. Amit Shrivastav, HSG, YAI, A. M. Tariang, Chief Financial Officer of Meghalayan Age Limited, Rajesh Chaudhary, an Arjuna Awardee, among others.
In his address as the Chief Guest, D.P. Wahlang expressed his enthusiasm that the regatta has been recognized as a national ranking event. He extended his gratitude to the Army officials for their support, particularly in light of the participation of Arjuna awardee Rajesh Chaudhary, which is expected to inspire and motivate the young competitors.
Wahlang also highlighted that the state government established the club under the tourism department not only to organize sailing competitions but also to promote the state as a tourist destination.
Robert Lyngdoh, Member Secretary of USC, informed that the event has attracted approximately a hundred participants from fifteen different clubs across the country.
Vice President of the Yachting Association of India (YAI), TSA Narayanan, mentioned that the association aims to expand the sport to the district taluk level in accordance with the sports code.
The 2nd North-East Regatta 2024, scheduled until April 6, 2024, is expected to surpass the success of the inaugural edition. Featuring over 100 participants from across the country, including 106 participants from 17 clubs across 10 classes, the event is set against the picturesque backdrop of Umiam Lake.
With the support of local communities and the government, the regatta promises to be a celebration of athleticism, sportsmanship, and the spirit of adventure.
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