15-year-old national-level canoeist drowns during practice in Haryana

Maya Dhankar, a 15‑year‑old canoeist who had achieved national‑level status, died after drowning during a practice session at a government‑backed sports nursery in Karontha, Rohtak district, Haryana. The training took place at a village pond that forms part of the nursery’s facilities, a setting that young paddlers use to develop basic canoeing techniques. Dhankar had represented Haryana in several national canoeing competitions, earning a place among the country’s promising junior athletes. The sports nursery, established by the state to nurture water‑sport talent, provides a structured environment for athletes of various ages. The pond at Karontha serves as a natural venue for these sessions. While the exact cause of the accident has not been disclosed, the incident highlights the risks associated with water‑based training, particularly for younger participants who are still mastering technique and endurance. Haryana has developed multiple government‑run sports nurseries across the state to encourage participation in canoeing and other aquatic disciplines, reflecting a broader policy to identify and develop talent outside major urban centers. Haryana’s network of lakes, ponds and rivers provides natural venues for canoeing, and the state’s sports department has established several government‑backed nurseries to harness these resources for athlete development. The incident has sparked conversations about safety protocols in state‑run training facilities, though no formal measures have been announced yet. Canoeing remains a relatively niche sport in India, with a small number of athletes achieving national-level status, and the state’s investment in dedicated training facilities reflects an attempt to broaden participation and nurture talent. The loss of a young athlete at the national level underscores the dedication required to reach elite competition and the importance of safeguarding those who train intensively. Maya Dhankar’s death is noted by her family, coaches, and the canoeing community, though no public expressions of grief have been recorded in the available reports. The tragedy adds to a series of incidents involving young athletes in Indian sport, reinforcing the call for improved safety protocols across the sector. As any investigation proceeds, the focus will remain on understanding how such a loss could occur within a state‑supported training environment. For now, the record shows that a promising young canoeist from Haryana died while training at a village pond in Rohtak, a stark reminder of the risks inherent in the pursuit of sporting excellence. The incident underscores the personal commitment required to pursue sport at a high level, highlighting the balance between ambition and safety. Karontha, a small village in Rohtak district, hosts the sports nursery that provides a rare opportunity for local youth to train in canoeing, a sport that demands both physical endurance and precise technique. While canoeing is not a mainstream sport, the tragedy highlights the importance of vigilant safety practices at all training venues, regardless of the sport’s popularity. The community mourns the loss of a promising young talent.

Source: Hindustan Times