Sailing is yet to reach a professional level in India, but it is slowly picking up. For instance, there are local sailing clubs that are promoting the sport among local youths and schools. One such instance is a club by the Krishna River. Located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, it is an effort made by the tourism department of the state to promote the club as a venue for water sports.
Located in the city of Vijayawada, it is a great venue where sailing sport buffs can get a glimpse of some action here. The club is known as the Volga Sailing Club. This club has been floating different vessels by the river banks of Krishna and they cater to both professionals as well as recreational sport enthusiasts.
The club has several supporters and key people behind its workings like Buridi Madan Mohan Rao, who is an ex Indian Navy official. He chose this club to be in Vijayawada in order to promote different water sports activities which is his passion. He was also able to get the support of the tourism department to get the club concept going. Madan served as Chief Petty Officer in the Navy.
He started the club along with three other members, who had previously been sailing in Kastela. Initial days they had a single keel boat where the elders would sail as a recreation or pick up the techniques of boating if they wished to. They also started off with dinghy sailboats that were perfect for children who could start learning from the age of eight. Today they have five trainees at the club who are training regularly. They are looking forward to being complete sailors and be able to participate in national championships.
The banks of river Krishna seem to be ideal for the club as the waters are calm and serene. Training sessions usually include covering four kilometers every time for maneuvering the boats.