The Umiam Sailing Club (USC) and UDAY for Sailors Foundation in association with the Yachting Association of India (YAI) kicked off the 2nd North East Regatta 2024 at an opening ceremony held yesterday at Orchid Lake Resort Watersports Complex at Umiam.
In his remarks as the chief guest, Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang expressed excitement that the regatta is recognised as a national ranking event and thanked the army officials for providing necessary support for the competition given the presence of Arjuna awardee Rajesh Chowdhury, which will boost and encourage the young competitors taking part.
He informed that the state government created the club under the Tourism Department with a view of not only organising sailing competitions but also eyeing the opportunity of branding the state as a tourist destination.
Around 100 participants have registered for the regatta, which will run until April 6, from 15 different clubs across the country, USC member secretary Robert Lyngdoh informed.
YAI vice-president Lt Gen (retd) TSA Narayana said that the association plans to take the sports to the district taluk level as per the Sports Code.
Other dignitaries present at the launch included Director General of Police Lajja Ram Bishnoi and the regatta’s technical director Col Alok Yadav.
