Indian sailors Nethra Kumanan and Vishnu Saravanan endured a challenging journey to the Athletes Village in Paris, facing delays due to widespread disruptions on the French rail network. The sabotage attacks on the high-speed trains caused significant inconvenience to travelers, including the Indian athletes for Paris Olympics.
Both Indian sailors were affected by French rail chaos as per Revsportz but the duo reached the sports village on time ahead of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.
Nethra Kumanan: India’s Sailing Pioneer
Nethra Kumanan, a trailblazer in Indian sailing, made history by becoming the first Indian woman to qualify for the Olympics. She also secured a direct entry to the Paris 2024 Games, showcasing her consistent performance on the international stage. Kumanan’s experience includes representing India at the 2014 and 2018 Asian Games, with a best finish of fourth in the 2018 edition.
Vishnu Saravanan: Following in Footsteps
Vishnu Saravanan is steadily making a name for himself in Indian sailing. After representing India at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, he secured a quota for the Paris 2024 Games, becoming only the second Indian sailor to achieve this feat after Farokh Tarapore.
French Rail Network Under Attack
The Indian sailors’ journey was disrupted by the sabotage attacks on the French rail network, which caused widespread chaos across the country. The incidents, which occurred just hours before the Olympics opening ceremony, raised security concerns and impacted travel for millions of people, including international visitors.
French authorities have launched an investigation into the matter, with the national police leading the inquiry. The full extent of the damage and the impact on the Olympics remains to be seen.
Despite the travel challenges, Nethra Kumanan and Vishnu Saravanan have now arrived at the Athletes Village and will be representing India at the Paris Olympics. Their determination to overcome obstacles and their participation in the Games are a testament to their resilience and dedication to their sport.
