The Organizer

Shakil Ahmed is not only celebrated for his prowess as an athlete and coach but also revered as a visionary who has significantly contributed to the promotion and organization of rowing in India. His initiatives have played a pivotal role in expanding the sport’s reach and fostering a new generation of rowing enthusiasts.

Key Contributions as a Sports Visionary and Organizer

1. Founder of Bengal Water Sports (BWS)

Bengal Water Sports (BWS), founded by international rower and coach Shakil Ahmed, has emerged as a pivotal institution in promoting water sports across West Bengal and India. Through its initiatives, BWS has transformed the landscape of rowing and dragon boat racing, nurturing talent from grassroots levels to international arenas.

🏆 Notable Achievements of Bengal Water Sports

1. International Representation

2019 China International Dragon Boat Race: A 15-member team from BWS, led by Shakil Ahmed, participated in this prestigious event, showcasing their skills on an international platform. Tripura Net
2023 16th World Dragon Boat Championship: BWS, in collaboration with the Bengal Dragon Boat Traditional Sports Association, sent nine athletes from West Bengal to compete in Thailand, with two participants being Asian gold medallists. Tripura Net

2. Grassroots Development and School-Level Success

All-India School Regatta: Under Shakil’s mentorship, students from Jatragachi Pranabananda High School clinched junior titles for three consecutive years, breaking the dominance of elite institutions.
Virtual Boat Race Initiative: BWS organized indoor rowing competitions across 100 schools, introducing the sport to students in districts lacking water sports facilities. Kolkata First

3. Empowering Underprivileged Youth

Afridi Ali and Rejayan Karim: Discovered by BWS, these two youths from Kolkata’s slums were selected for the junior India team at the 14th World Dragon Boat Championships in Pattaya, Thailand. Business Standard

4. Promotion of Indoor Rowing

Asian School Indoor Rowing Championship (2018): BWS successfully inaugurated this event, focusing on injury-free sports and encouraging teamwork among young minds through indoor rowing. Tripura Net

Shakil Ahmed established Bengal Water Sports (BWS) with the mission to promote rowing and water sports across India. Under his guidance, BWS has become a pivotal organization in introducing and nurturing rowing talent, especially among the youth.

2. Organizer of the Asian School Indoor Rowing Championship

In collaboration with the Bangladesh Rowing Federation, Shakil Ahmed organized the Asian School Indoor Rowing Championship in 2018. This event witnessed participation from over 8,000 students across 17 schools in Bangladesh, emphasizing his commitment to fostering international sports relations and youth engagement.

3. Initiator of the Corporate Rowing (Indoor) Premier League

Recognizing the potential of indoor rowing, Shakil Ahmed launched the Corporate Rowing (Indoor) Premier League (CRPL) to introduce the sport to the corporate sector. This initiative has been instrumental in promoting fitness and teamwork among professionals.

4. Promotion of Dragon Boat Racing

Under his leadership, Bengal Water Sports, in association with the Bengal Dragon Boat & Traditional Sports Association, organized training camps and facilitated participation in international events like the 16th World Dragon Boat Championship in Thailand. These efforts have elevated India’s presence in global water sports arenas.

5. Advocate for Youth Engagement in Sports

Shakil Ahmed’s initiatives have consistently focused on youth development. By organizing events and training programs, he has provided platforms for young athletes to showcase and hone their skills, fostering a new generation of sports enthusiasts.