Asian Games 2026: Mansa’s Satnam Singh wins historic rowing bronze for India

PTC Web Desk:  A proud moment for Punjab and India as rower Satnam Singh, a native of Fatta Maluka village in Mansa district, has won a bronze medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Satnam Singh and his partner Salman Khan finished third in the men’s double sculls event at the Nagaragawa International Regatta Course. The Indian duo clocked 6 minutes 13.25 seconds to secure the bronze. The result also marked India’s first-ever Asian Games medal in the men’s double sculls event.

The Indian pair remained in medal contention throughout the race and were still in second place during the later stages before being overtaken in the final stretch. China won gold, while Uzbekistan took silver.

For Satnam, the medal adds to an already impressive Asian Games record. He had earlier won bronze as part of India’s men’s quadruple sculls team at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. His latest achievement gives him back-to-back Asian Games podium finishes.

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From a village in Mansa to the Asian Games podium

Satnam’s journey in rowing began at a young age. According to his family, he developed an interest in sports during childhood and started rowing while studying in Class 6.

His performances eventually earned him a place at the rowing academy in Ropar, where he continued his training. Over the years, he represented India at national and international competitions and built a name for himself in the sport.

His family said Satnam had earlier brought recognition to the country through his performances at international events in China. His latest medal in Japan has now given the family another reason to celebrate.

Family celebrates after Satnam’s early-morning call

Satnam’s father, Amrik Singh, said the family was overjoyed when their son called in the morning to share the news of his third-place finish.

He said the entire family is proud of Satnam’s achievement but also pointed to the lack of proper sports infrastructure for rowing athletes in Mansa district.

According to the family, several young athletes from the area have made their mark at national and international levels despite limited facilities. They urged the government and administration to improve sports infrastructure in rural areas so that more youngsters can get access to proper coaching and training.

Satnam’s family also highlighted the sporting spirit within their household. His elder brother is serving in the Indian Army, and inspired by him, Satnam too pursued a career connected with the armed forces and later joined the Navy.

Family seeks better sports facilities

While celebrating the bronze medal, the family expressed disappointment that they had not received a congratulatory call from any government or administrative representative following Satnam’s international achievement.

They said better facilities, coaching and support for athletes in villages could help more young people stay connected with sports and represent India at major international events.