At the dominant moment for Indian sailing, the bombai Zahaan Hemrajani provided the top 10 overall goals at the prestigious U17 O’Pen Skiff World Championship, which took place from 17 to 23 July in Japan Nishinomiya. Its result means one of the highest cycling of the Indian sailor at this global youth event.
The Championship was organized by the International Association O’Pen Skiff Association, a recognized youth class under World Sailing – a global management body for sport.
Zahaan’s campaign was nothing extraordinary. After competing in the first three races with defective equipment – the failure that left him at a clear disadvantage – arranged a remarkable comeback. He showed exceptional resistance and tactical skill and won two races and secured the top -10 targets in almost half of his heating – a feat, which in this class did not reach the Indian sailor.
“That means the world to me,” Zahaan said after the event. “I am incredibly grateful to my coach Umesh Naiksatam and the entire sailing team with 24, for pushing me on every step on the way, and my mentor Amish Vedda for his constant faith and leadership.”
He also expanded sincerely thanks to his parents Nilima and Ashish Hemrajani (founder Bookmyshow) for their steadfast support. In addition, Captain Abhimanyu Patankar from the Indian Maritime Water Training Center (InwTC) and the Royal Bombay Yacht Club (Rbyc) for their vital roles in its development of the sailor.
Zahaan also attributed the Maharahtry government, whose timely intervention ensured access to Pawn’s lake during the monsoon – an essential factor in maintaining continuous training during the season.
His world -class introduction not only focuses on the reflector on the Indian emerging talent sailing, but also determines a strong precedent for the future of the nation in international junior sailing.
– ends
Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
July 24, 2025
