Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
MORJIM: The All India Windsurfing and Kitesurfing Championship 2025 kicks off on Thursday at Vithaldasvaddo, Morjim Beach, with Goa’s top talents, siblings Katya and Dwayne Coelho, looking to reaffirm their dominance in the IQ Class, while Keona Rajani seeks to reclaim her kitesurfing title. The championship will begin from 10 am.
Organised by the Bord Sailing Association (BSA) and Premier Kiteboarding Association, the championship has drawn 45 athletes from across India. Teams from Mumbai, Bhopal, Odisha and the Indian Navy (Goa) have joined individual competitors from as far as Tuticorin, all eager to showcase their prowess on the waves.
Katya Coelho, a well-established name in the sport, will be striving to maintain her superiority in her class. Meanwhile, her brother Dwayne faces stiff competition from naval academy athletes from Mumbai and Goa.
On the kitesurfing front, Keona Rajani, who lost her title to Kira Zucher last year, is determined to reclaim her crown. “I am confident of myself. Despite having taken ill a while back, I am sure I will not only enjoy the races but also win the title,” said an optimistic Keona.
Adding to the excitement is Goa’s seasoned windsurfer Derrick Menezes, who, despite his years, remains a formidable contender. “For me, it’s always about camaraderie first and winning next,” said Derrick, who has delivered surprise performances in previous championships.