Two Chennai talents gearing up for Beijing Olympic berth

Chennai, Oct 13 (UNI) Eyeing a berth in Sailing at the Beijing Olympic Games next year, two rising talented siblings Ajay Rau and Rohini Rau, will be participating in a few ISAF Grade 1 and 3 events in France, Spain and Australia.

Already putting in long hours of hard training, including running , cycling, rowing and strength circuits, Ajay and Rohini will be coached by former Olympic sailor Gedrus and former Belgian Olympic head coach Philip. The training would include aspects like boat speed, endurance and tactics, according to the Sailing Association here.

Ajay will compete alongise top European sailors in France. The duo would then compete in Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland, while Rohini has already got a berth to compete in world champioships in Auckland from March 13 to 20 next. If she puts in a commendable performance in the world event, she could be a probable for the Beijing Olympics.

Sailors who have already qualified for the Beijing Olympics and those who are competing to do so, would also be in fray in the events in which Ajay and Rohini Rau are to participate.

The events include Melbourne International Regatta-Olympic and Invited Classics from January 14 to 19, Laser Asia Pacific from Jaunary 12 to 19 and Laser world championships from February 5 to 13.

UNI