New Delhi, 8 December (H.S.): The Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, has begun hosting the 14th edition of the prestigious Admiral’s Cup sailing championship, one of the world’s premier naval sailing competitions. This year’s event features participation from 35 countries, bringing together young naval cadets from across Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas for intense competition over the next four days.

The championship, which officially commences on Tuesday, December 9, will see midshipmen test their tactical agility and seamanship amid the challenging sea conditions and brisk coastal winds off Kerala’s shores. Established in 2010, the Admiral’s Cup aims to strengthen camaraderie, maritime cooperation, and mutual understanding among trainee officers of friendly foreign navies.

Over the years, the event has evolved into a prestigious global platform, renowned for its demanding format and high standards of competition. Conducted in the internationally acclaimed ILCA-6 class sailboats under the match-racing format, the championship is a rigorous test of tactical brilliance, physical endurance, and precise sailing proficiency.

According to the Navy, the INA’s state-of-the-art sailing infrastructure, eco-friendly training ecosystem, and the favorable waters of Ezhimala provide an ideal setting for an international event of this stature. Beyond the competitive races, visiting participants will engage in a series of cultural exchanges, dialogue sessions, and outreach initiatives — offering them a window into Indian naval traditions, training ethos, and the academy’s world-class facilities.

The event will conclude on December 13 with a grand closing ceremony honoring the best-performing teams and outstanding individual sailors. Upholding the spirit of maritime partnership, the Admiral’s Cup continues to strengthen India’s commitment to global naval cooperation, professional development of trainee officers, and the shared values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar