The 3rd YAI North East Regatta 2025 came to a close today with participants showcasing their sailing skills at the picturesque Umiam Lake.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the five-day event witnessed sailors’ determination and a sheer sense of adventure.
The regatta conducted by the Umiam Sailing Club (USC) and UDAY Sailing Foundation in association with the International 420 Class Association of India, under the aegis of the Yachting Association of India (YAI) and supported by Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, featured over 81 participants from 9 prominent sailing clubs across India, including 25 girls and nine novices.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh who attended the closing day congratulated the sailors, the organising team and the members of the Uday Sailing Foundation. He noted that the event is growing each year, attracting more participants.
Highlighting a technological milestone, the Minister pointed out, “For the first time, we have live-streamed the entire event, allowing parents to follow their children’s progress remotely.”
Lyngdoh spoke passionately about the venue, stating, “We are fortunate to have one of the world’s most picturesque lakes right here.” He added that facilities around the lake are being upgraded.
He also announced a significant investment plan of over Rs 100 crore is underway to further upgrade the facilities, including offering lake cruises.
Doaydy T Sangma of Umiam Sailing Club (USC) was recognized as the Most Promising Sailor. The National Sailing School (NSS), Bhopal, won the Best Sailing Club award with 10 medals while Shashank Batham (NSS) received the prestigious Col Jaggi Trophy for achieving 7 hits (guns) in the ILA 6 category competition.
The event hosted competitions across 5 classes of boats in 11 different categories and served as a Junior National Ranking Event. Performances are expected to influence selections for the National Squad for the 2026 Asian Games.
The closing ceremony was attended by Lt Gen (Retd) TSA Narayanan, Vice President, Yachting Association of India, Uday Bhan Singh Yadav and Sarla Yadav, Directors of UDAY Sailing Foundation, Capt Jitender Dixit, Secretary of YAI, Col Alok Yadav, Technical Director, and Robert Lyngdoh, Secretary, coaches, sailors, and volunteers.
