The National Yachting senior and youth level competitions began at the Krishnapatnam beach in Nellore district here on Wednesday amidst the active participation of sailors coming from different parts of the country.
The water front at the all-weather, deep-water port here turned out to be a favourite spot for the sailors and organisers.
There was good participation in both senior and youth categories in the races, which were intended to generate wider awareness and inspire all-round talent especially those from rural areas to get trained in sailing and win medals in national and international events.
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The present competitions were jointly held by the Yachting Association of India (YAI), Yachting Association of Andhra Pradesh (YAAP), Tamil Nadu Sailing Association (TNSA) and the Navayuga Sailing Academy.
Coast Guard Commandant Ajit Unial, Krishnapatnam Port Chief Executive Officer Anil Yendluri, District Sports Development Officer Ramanaiah, YAAP general secretary Pradeep Gaur and others were present.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ajit said that the competition at the present location would turn out to be a challenging event and it would fully test the talents of participating sailors considering the winds, weather and local conditions.
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Mr. Anil said that these competitions were being held in a prestigious manner so that they would become a regular feature eventually to attract national and international sailors to come to Krishnapatnam.
The race officer for these events was Ilkel Biander of Turkey and the panel of judges will be headed by Kris Watts from the UK.