K atya Coelho h as become the first female iQFoiler to represent India at the upcoming Asian Games. The 22-year-old windsurfer qualified for the 2023 Asiad after winning gold at the third trail under women’s category in IQ foil event in Mumbai, held from 8-13 February by the Army Yachting Node of India.
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The young athlete also clinched a gold at the Senior Nationals and first round of Asian Games Selection Trails for the IQ Foil category and remains the reigning champion in the sport. After her qualification in the Asian Games, Katya spoke about it.
“It is a big moment in my career to be able to represent my country at such a big platform. My aim is to win gold for India. As newer sports get recognised in India and receive love and support from the fans, we will see more athletes coming up and making our country proud,” she said.
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With this event set to make a debut at the Paris Olympics, Katya will eye to secure the berth at the international event. The 22-year-old was the only Indian female windsurfer to compete in the Youth Olympics in 2014. Also, Kayta was the first female Indian surfer to represent India at the 2018 Asian Games.