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In a historic victory, Manaswini Maharana, hailing from Panibandha village, Ganjam district, Odisha, made waves by clinching the gold medal in yachting at the Yachting Association of India's (YAI) Senior National Sailing Championship. Competing in the RX women's category, she battled challenging conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, to emerge victorious at the prestigious event held in Mumbai from September 20th to September 26th, 2023.
Manaswini's achievement is not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone for Odisha as she becomes the first woman from the state to excel in this sport category. Her dedication and perseverance were evident throughout the competition, and she credits her coach, Sabir Bux, for his unwavering support and motivation.
Reflecting on her journey, Manaswini expressed her gratitude to her coach, her family, and Tata Steel Foundation (TSF), where she serves as a facilitator for the nutrition project in Ganjam. She also highlighted the encouragement she received from her daughter, which fueled her determination to succeed.
Looking ahead, Manaswini has set her sights on the upcoming National Sailing Championship scheduled for October. Her ultimate goal is to represent Odisha and India on the international stage in sailing competitions. Sabir Bux, her coach, expressed his confidence in Manaswini's abilities, emphasizing her commitment and sportsmanship.
Manaswini's sailing prowess is not new; she boasts a remarkable track record in the sport. She has previously won over 13 gold medals in sailing competitions, including victories at the National Games in 2013 and 2018. Her excellence in sailing was recognized by the Government of Odisha, which awarded her the prestigious Biju Patnaik Kanya Ratna for representing the state at the National Games. She has also achieved top positions in various competitions, including the Bangkong Open Sailing Competition and the Indian Navy Sailing Championship.
Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) proudly celebrates Manaswini's outstanding achievement, acknowledging her as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes. Her victory stands as a testament to her unwavering resolve and exceptional skills, showcasing the immense talent present in Odisha's sporting community.