Mumbai, Jan 22 (IANS) Twelve teams representing Indian naval ships Sunday fought it out at for the top spot at the Western Fleet Pulling Regatta (WEFREG) with the team representing the Indian Navy’s sole aircraft carrier, INS Viraat, emerging triumphant.
‘WEFREG, the most significant event in the Fleet Sports Calendar, saw a participation from 12 teams representing INS Viraat, Delhi, Mysore, Mumbai, Godavari, Ganga, Gomati, Brahmaputra, Beas, Betwa, Talwar and Tabar,’ a naval official said.
‘Five races were conducted, with the fifth race being for the ‘Best Whaler’, comprising the best boat pullers from each team,’ he added.
According to the official, historically, pulling a bank of oars represents the earliest from of propulsion.
The pulling regatta is a sailor’s way of re-emphasizing the importance and the virtues of pulling together in harmony. ‘For the modern seagoing fraternity, it signifies team work, enthusiasm, camaraderie and ‘josh’,’ the official said.
The regatta saw a spirited performance by all the participants, while families of naval personnel and invitees for the event witnessed the races from INS Viraat and INS Deepak.
Vice Admiral D.K. Joshi, the flag officer commanding-in-chief, Western Naval Command was the chief guest and gave away the prizes on the occasion.
