Bengaluru: In a landmark achievement for Indian sailing, Abhimanyu Panwar, a seasoned national and international medalist, has etched his name in history as the first Indian skipper to guide a team to the podium at the 7th edition of the prestigious Fareast Cup, one of Asia’s most grueling offshore sailing championships.
The month-long event spanned 2,500 nautical miles across the waters of China, Russia, and South Korea, divided into four challenging legs. Eight international teams competed this year, with Abhimanyu invited to skipper Team Sailing Inn, comprising 12 sailors from the USA, Russia, China, and India – including Indians Timothy, Sriram, and Prem.
Battling extreme weather shifts ranging from windless days to storms with gusts of 40 knots, the team also endured multiple equipment failures, including torn sails. Despite the odds, Abhimanyu’s leadership and the crew’s resilience propelled them to a remarkable third-place podium finish.
“This podium finish is not just about personal glory—it’s a historic step for Indian offshore sailing,” Abhimanyu said. “We’ve proved that Indian sailors can compete at the highest international level, and I’m excited about the future this opens for our country.”
Following this success, Abhimanyu has received an optional invite to field an all-Indian crew for the next edition of the Fareast Cup—a milestone that could showcase Indian talent on the global stage and inspire the next generation of sailors.
With over 20 years of experience and 10,000+ nautical miles sailed, Abhimanyu is the reigning J80 Fleet and Offshore Champion of India (2025). He is among the few Indians certified as an ISSA international sailing instructor, authorized to train globally. He also holds a London Book of World Record for leading the first-ever mixed police force (men and women of the Tamil Nadu Police) on a 1,000 NM offshore expedition.
Abhimanyu has represented India at multiple World Championships, ranked 4th in Asia in the J80 class, and continues to raise India’s profile in global sailing. His latest feat at the Fareast Cup marks a turning point in putting India firmly on the world offshore sailing map.
About the Fareast Cup:
The Fareast Cup is a biennial premier offshore sailing event held across the waters of China, Russia, and South Korea. Known for its endurance-testing conditions, it attracts top sailors worldwide and demands teamwork, resilience, and skill over thousands of nautical miles.
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