Sports

Aarohi Borde Makes History with Bronze in 200m Butterfly at SFI Meet


Goa, August 2025 – A new chapter has been written in Goa’s sporting history, thanks to rising star Aarohi Borde. Competing in the prestigious Swimming Federation of India (SFI) meet, Aarohi became the first Goan swimmer to win a medal in the demanding 200m Butterfly event.

🥉 Bronze Medal Performance

In a tight race, Aarohi clocked 2:33.65 to finish third, just behind silver medalist Angarika Saikia (2:33.45) and gold winner Sanithi Mukherjee (2:31.65). Her performance was not only technically sound but mentally resilient, showing poise under pressure in a fiercely competitive field.

🌊 Breaking Barriers for Goa

This medal marks a first-ever for the state in this category at a national-level SFI competition. The 200m Butterfly is known for its intensity and technique, making Aarohi’s feat even more impressive.

Her journey to the podium reflects years of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to pushing beyond limits. More importantly, it sets a precedent for young swimmers in Goa to aim higher and dream bigger.

💬 What This Means

Aarohi’s victory is more than just a medal. It’s a symbol of emerging talent from Goa, a region traditionally underrepresented in elite swimming competitions. Her success could pave the way for more athletes from smaller states to step into national—and even international—spotlights.

This achievement also underscores the importance of support systems for regional athletes, including better infrastructure, coaching, and visibility on competitive platforms.

🔗 Aarohi’s Future

With this milestone, Aarohi is now one to watch on the national circuit. Her determination and talent suggest this bronze might just be the beginning.

Sports

Ashwini Desai from Goa Bags Medals at National Masters Powerlifting Championships 2025


Curchorem, Goa – A proud moment for Goa as Ashwini Desai secures top honors at the National Masters (Men & Women) Classic & Equipped Powerlifting Championships 2025, held recently in Kozhikode, Kerala.

Representing the state in the 57kg Women’s category, Ashwini powered her way to the Silver Medal overall, cementing her position as one of India’s rising stars in strength sports.

Dominating the Platform

Her stellar performance didn’t stop at the overall silver—Ashwini also clinched:

  • 🥇 Gold in Squat
  • 🥈 Silver in Bench Press

This multi-medal haul reflects her dedication, training, and determination to succeed at the national level.

From Curchorem to the National Stage

Hailing from Curchorem, Ashwini is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, especially young women in Goa. Her consistent efforts and focus on powerlifting as a competitive sport have placed her among the best in the country.

Local sports associations, trainers, and fellow athletes have poured in congratulations, recognizing Ashwini’s contribution to the state’s sporting pride.


📖 Stay tuned to allycaral.com for more inspiring stories from Goa and beyond.

Sports

Divya Deshmukh Crowned FIDE Women’s World Cup Champion, Becomes Grandmaster


Batumi, Georgia | July 2025 – In a stunning display of strategic brilliance and poise, Divya Deshmukh clinched the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming only the 4th Indian woman to be awarded the Grandmaster title.

Facing off against the seasoned Indian chess icon Humpy Koneru in the finals, Divya’s victory marks a new era in Indian chess — one where youth, determination, and intellect are rewriting the narrative.

At just 18, Divya has already been turning heads in the chess world, but this landmark win in Batumi, Georgia cements her place among India’s greatest. Her rise is also a testament to the growing strength of women in Indian sports, particularly in the highly competitive world of chess.

The FIDE World Cup win is not only a personal triumph but a national celebration, inspiring a new generation of chess enthusiasts across the country.

As messages pour in from sporting icons, political leaders, and fans worldwide, Divya Deshmukh’s moment of glory is a proud chapter in India’s sporting history.

📖 Read the full story on allycaral.com

International

WNBA All-Stars Light Up the Orange Carpet with Style and Confidence


The WNBA All-Star Weekend kicked off in pure style as athletes made a bold statement on the orange carpet in Indianapolis. Held at the convention center, Thursday evening wasn’t just a prelude to the weekend’s sporting action—it was a celebration of self-expression, individuality, and empowerment through fashion.

The moment the athletes stepped out, the crowd erupted with cheers. Leading the style parade was Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum, who looked radiant in a shimmering red dress and heels, sharing that the whole experience was “a lot of fun.”

Joining her in the spotlight was Aliyah Boston of the Indiana Fever, stunning in a dark-toned gown that reflected elegance and power. “It adds something special for the fans,” she said, smiling.

Chicago Sky’s breakout star Angel Reese brought drama in a leopard-print coat and sunglasses, returning after missing last year’s event. She wasn’t the only one turning heads—A’ja Wilson, the Las Vegas Aces’ reigning MVP, stepped out in a maroon Di Petsa gown with a daring slit, paired with Saint Laurent gold earrings that glimmered under the lights.

Not all players chose glitz—Natasha Cloud of the New York Liberty kept things grounded with a sharp pants-and-shirt combo, revealing she was a bit nervous about the walk. “I’m just here to enjoy the moment and have fun,” she said.

Minnesota Lynx star and mom Napheesa Collier looked radiant but playfully admitted she may have opted for a different outfit had she realized there’d be so many children watching.

Fashion has always had a presence in the WNBA, with “Tunnel Fits” becoming a staple of athlete branding. But Thursday night pushed that to the forefront, making the orange carpet a canvas for empowerment, pride, and style.

With the perfect blend of fierce fashion and elite athleticism, the WNBA stars proved that confidence isn’t just for the court—it shines just as bright off it.

Sports

Koneru Humpy Scripts History at FIDE Women’s World Cup, Becomes First Indian Woman in Semi-Finals


In a landmark moment for Indian chess and women in sports, Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has become the first Indian woman ever to enter the semi-finals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup. This remarkable achievement not only reaffirms her place among the global elite but also lights the path for aspiring female chess players across the country.

A former World Rapid Chess Champion and one of India’s most decorated players, Koneru Humpy has consistently showcased her prowess on the global stage. Her path to the semi-finals was marked by tenacity, calculated brilliance, and composed aggression—traits that have become synonymous with her game.

The FIDE Women’s World Cup, one of the most prestigious events in international chess, draws the world’s best minds. Humpy’s performance so far underscores India’s rising prominence in chess and continues a legacy pioneered by legends like Viswanathan Anand.

This accomplishment is more than just a tournament milestone—it’s a testament to women’s growing strength in competitive chess, traditionally dominated by men. With each calculated move, Koneru Humpy not only wins games but also inspires a new wave of young girls to pick up the board and believe in their potential.

As she prepares for her semi-final clash, the entire nation stands behind her. Regardless of the outcome, she has already made history—and inspired history to follow.

Bravo, Grandmaster Humpy. India salutes you! 🇮🇳♟️