Balraj Panwar Secures India’s First Quota in Rowing for Paris Olympics

Balraj Panwar has made history by securing India’s first quota in rowing for the Paris Olympics. The 25-year-old Indian Army rower showcased his talent by clinching the third position in the men’s single scull event at the 2024 World Asian and Oceanian Olympic and Paralympic Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea.

Panwar, who narrowly missed out on a bronze medal at the Asian Games in China last year, completed the 2000m race in an impressive time of 7 minutes and 1.27 seconds, earning himself a spot at the Olympics. In the men’s single scull category, the top five contenders secure berths for the Olympics, and Panwar’s achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian rowing.

Unfortunately, India failed to secure a spot in the men’s lightweight double sculls event, with the duo of Ujjwal Kumar and Arvind Singh finishing third. As a result, India will be represented by a solitary entry in rowing at the Paris Olympics, with Panwar flying the flag for his country.

The Asian Qualifiers also saw India clinch a gold medal in the men’s double scull event, thanks to the efforts of Salman Khan and Nitin Deol. Panwar, who hails from Karnal in Haryana, put on a dominant performance in the single scull event, showcasing his strength and determination on the water.

Despite a slow start, Panwar surged ahead and held the lead for a significant portion of the race, only to be overtaken in the final lap by Vladislav Yakovlev of Kazakhstan and Memo Memo of Indonesia. Panwar’s achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and he will now look to make his mark on the Olympic stage in Paris.