LUCKNOW, May 11 -- Gorakhpur's Ramgarhtal has carved a strong identity as one of India's premier rowing venues. Long renowned for its spiritual and cultural heritage, Gorakhpur is now surging ahead as a national hub for water sports. From May 12, the lake will host medal-packed action over the next ten days: the 'Asmita' National Women's Rowing League from May 12 to 16 and the 46th Junior National Rowing Championship from May 17 to 21. Organized by the Uttar Pradesh Rowing Association under the Rowing Federation of India and Sports Authority of India, these championships receive full infrastructural and administrative backing from the UP Sports Department. These events will elevate Uttar Pradesh's sporting stature, cement Gorakhpur's water sports legacy, and boost sports tourism. Kicking off the festivities, the Asmita National Women's Rowing League will see elite athletes from across India compete in four events each across Under-15, Under-19, and Open categories-all over 1,000 meters. Teams arrive May 12, with inauguration on May 13 and finals on May 16. Beyond sportsmanship, it champions women's empowerment, offering a professional platform to build toward future majors. A game-changer: Rs.1,55,500 prize money per winning team in each category, with cash awards down to eighth place, igniting fierce competition and marking a milestone for women's rowing. Seamlessly following, the 46th Junior National Rowing Championship (teams arrive May 16-17, inauguration May 18, finals May 21) spotlights young talent with five events each for boys and girls over 2,000 meters. It's a proud moment for UP, grooming prospects for international arenas. Ramgarhtal now meets global standards, as per UP Rowing Association Secretary Sudhir Sharma, with top-notch facilities for lodging, security, and tech needs-elevating it from tourist spot to elite rowing nursery. This builds on a stellar legacy: the Indian Women's Rowing Team's ongoing national camp since March 27 for Mission Japan-2026 (20th Asian Games), the 25th Sub-Junior Nationals (Oct 2024), and Khelo India University Games rowing (2023). UP Rowing Association's secretary, Sudhir Sharma said that state body was trying its best to hold both the big events a grest success in Gorakhpur....