Admiral Sureesh Mehta, Chief of Naval Staff, didn't waste much time in mentioning the reason for his visit to Chennai. "Good results by the TNSA sailors made me come here," said Mehta on his first visit to a private club in Tamil Nadu. At a small function at the Port Trust Centenary Auditorium in Chennai, the Chief of Naval Staff officially inducted eight 29er class and 50 optimist class boats which the TNSA had bought from Australia.
According to Ashok Thakkar, Commodore TNSA, the 29er class is for those who have graduated from the optimist class. "The popularity of 29er class is increasing," he said.
Ashok was all praise for Munna Jamal, chief coach of the TNSA. Many of the youngsters he trained have gone on to win titles in National events.
The Chief of Naval Staff floored everyone with his wit. When Shanta Ravikumar, media co-ordinator, introduced Mehta to the audience citing his achievements - "PVSM AVSM ADC" - he interrupted, "I am also the president of the Yachting Association of India." This had the audience roaring in laughter.
Mehta hoped that a lot of youngsters would enter the 29er class in the future. He called upon those involved in sailing "to support the cause of promoting the sport."
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