In a historic moment for Indian sailing, Chennai girl Nethra Kumanan, a member of Tamil Nadu Sailing Association (TNSA) Chennai, has secured her berth at the Paris Games 2024, marking her second consecutive qualification for the Olympics. The feat follows her impressive performance at the last chance regatta held in Hyeres, where she competed fiercely in the ILCA 6 class of Boat.
Despite facing formidable competition, Nethra showcased her skill, determination, and unwavering resolve throughout the regatta. Her exceptional sailing prowess propelled her to a commendable 5th place finish, securing the vital 3rd spot allocated to countries in the Emerging Nations Program (ENP). This remarkable feat not only guarantees India’s participation in the Paris Olympics but also etches Nethra’s name in the annals of Indian sporting history, a release from the TNSA stated.
Despite facing formidable competition, Nethra showcased her skill, determination, and unwavering resolve throughout the regatta. Her exceptional sailing prowess propelled her to a commendable 5th place finish, securing the vital 3rd spot allocated to countries in the Emerging Nations Program (ENP).
Tamil Nadu Sailing Association, Chennai
Nethra’s second Olympic qualification exemplifies her relentless pursuit of excellence and her unwavering commitment to representing India on the global stage. With this accomplishment, she cements her status as a trailblazer and a role model for aspiring athletes across the country.
The journey began with a childhood dream to excel in the sport of sailing, when Nethra joined TNSA through the annual summer sailing camp. Through years of dedicated training and hard work, she has risen to become a beacon of inspiration for Indian sports enthusiasts. Her first qualification for the Olympics in Tokyo 2020 marked a historic moment for Indian sailing, as she became the first Indian woman to achieve this milestone in the ILCA 6 class.
Now, with her second consecutive qualification, Nethra Kumanan has reaffirmed her position as a formidable force in international sailing. Her unwavering determination, coupled with her exceptional talent, promises to shine brightly on the grand stage of the Paris Olympics, as she strives to bring glory to the nation once again. She will leave for her training to Spain in two weeks’ time.
Nethra Kumanan’s story is not just one of sporting excellence but also a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. She has completed B.E Mechanical Engineering from SRM University and is currently pursuing her MBA at the same institution.