Women rowers overall chams in Open Nationals

Orissa women were declared overall champions in the 29th Open National Rowing Championship, which concluded at Khadakvasla Lake in Pune on Sunday. The nine-member women squad bagged three golds and a silver while competing in four events. International Pravasini Dwibedy won the silver by finishing second in the single scull event, coach Jose Jacob informed from Pune. Dwibedy then combined with Meen Madhuri Toppo to claim gold in double scull. Pratima Puhana and Pramila Prava Minz fetched Orissa the second gold by winning the coxless pair event. The third gold was clinched in the coxless fours by Pratima Puhana, Alma Lakra, Monalisa Mohanty and Mamata Jena. Orissa, however, failed to win any medal in the men’s category as the squad was beaten in the semifinals.