Telangana’s 18-year-old Dharani Laveti impresses in the recently concluded regatta
Release date – Tuesday 23 July 07:00
Biswajit Talukdar
Hyderabad: Telangana’s 18-year-old Dharani Laveti had an impressive performance in the recently concluded regatta. At the 14th Monsoon Regatta at Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad, she became the national champion in the Under 19 International 420 Open and Mixed category.
Toroni has never been a national champion – her previous best result was a bronze medal in the 470 national races. But the determined sailor turned things around this year as she and crew member Vadla Mallesh claimed gold at the national competition in Hyderabad.
Sailing—an adventure sport through the medium of water that involves speed, wind, and high-intensity physical exertion—excited Toroni. “Sailing is a windy, tactical water sport that is as thrilling as it is fun.”
The new Bowen Parley lad came from humble beginnings. Her mother, Laveti Ramana, works as a housekeeper at Yashoda Hospital in Secunderabad. Back in September 2017, the youngster started sailing at the Hyderabad Yacht Club with her sister, Jhansipriya Laveti, in Naandi Foundation’s Nanhi kali program for girls.
Toroni and her sister first traveled to Portugal for Atlantic Week and then to Spain the next time around. The pair also competed with Team India at the Asia and Oceania Championships in October 2019.
Dalani now has his eyes set on another top race at the next Mysore and Mumbai nationals. The determined sailor has been working hard to overcome obstacles to fulfill his dream of representing the country at the next Asian Games and Olympic Games.
Darrowne tried to participate in the Hangzhou Asian Games Mumbai trials, but failed to qualify. Her teammate Preethi Kongara (from the same club) qualified for the mainland China event. Toroni admires Preti very much and hopes to occupy a place in the next Asian Games. “I will work hard to qualify for the next Asian Games, just like Preti did this time.”
She believes sailing has changed her life and is grateful to YCH Sports Foundation coach Suheim Sheikh for introducing her to water sports and providing her with support. “Mr. Suhaim was my inspiration. He gave us great care and support both sailing and academically,” she added.
