Kerala flood orphans claim silver at Asian Games sailing event

Prince Kurisinkal Nobal and Manu Francis delivered a historic performance for India at the Asian Games, clinching silver in the men's skiff sailing competition. The achievement marks a remarkable turnaround for Nobal, who lost his father in the catastrophic Kerala floods of 2018 that claimed hundreds of lives across the state.

The cousins have been competing together in sailing for the past decade, developing their partnership through years of dedicated training. Their Asian Games appearance represents their first outing at the continental sporting showcase, making the silver medal achievement all the more significant.

For Nobal, the medal carries deep personal meaning, fulfilling a dream that his late father had harbored. The sailor has channeled his grief into his sport, transforming tragedy into motivation. The pair's success signals India's growing competitiveness in Olympic sailing disciplines at continental championships.

Their silver medal adds to India's overall medal tally at the Games and highlights the country's emerging talent in water sports. The achievement is expected to inspire greater investment and participation in sailing programs across India's coastal regions.