Neha Thakur sets sail to glory, India's first-ever sailing medal at Asian Games

Neha Thakur has etched her name in history by securing India's first-ever medal in sailing at the ongoing 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou. Representing India in the Girl's Dinghy - ILCA 4 category, the 17-year-old sailor clinched the silver medal after competing in 11 races.

This remarkable achievement not only marks India's debut sailing medal but also becomes the 12th overall medal for the Indian contingent at the prestigious event. Neha Thakur's silver win also gave India its first medal of the day.

Thakur's performance throughout the competition demonstrated remarkable consistency, earning her a well-deserved spot on the podium. She achieved a net total of 27 points after the 11 races, securing the silver medal in the Girl's Dinghy ILCA 4 category.

The gold medal in this category was claimed by Noppassorn Khunboonjan of Thailand with 16 points, while Keira Marie Carlyle of Singapore secured the third position with 28 points.

Neha Thakur had finished third in the girls' dinghy ILCA 4 race nine and improved her position to second after race 10, concluding with an overall time of 24:48. Her historic achievement has brought pride and recognition to India in the field of sailing, marking a significant milestone in the country's sporting journey at the 19th Asian Games.