Paralympian Kathuniya Honors PM Modi as 'Param Mitra'

Paralympian Kathuniya Honors PM Modi as ‘Param Mitra’

Two-time Paralympic silver medalist Yogesh Kathuniya bestowed a heartfelt title upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their meeting at the PM’s residence. Kathuniya, who recently claimed silver in the F56 category at the World Para-Athletics Championships, expressed his gratitude for the Prime Minister’s unwavering support, calling him “Param Mitra” (best friend).

Kathuniya’s remarkable performance at the Paris Paralympics, where he secured a silver medal in the Men’s Discus Throw – F56 event with a season-best throw of 42.22m, was a testament to his dedication and resilience. The Prime Minister, recognizing the para-athletes’ exceptional achievements, hosted them at his residence to celebrate their record-breaking haul of 29 medals at the Games.

In a heartfelt address, Kathuniya acknowledged the Prime Minister’s role in fostering a supportive environment for para-athletes. “The consistency (in performance) came because of you; it came because of the schemes you have launched like TOPS, Khelo India etc. For everybody, PM means Prime Minister but for us, you are our ‘param mitra’ (best friend),” he said.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his pride in the para-athletes’ accomplishments and emphasized his commitment to supporting their endeavors. “I feel proud for this post and I also want to work as a ‘mitra’ with you all,” he replied.

India’s impressive performance at the Paris Paralympics, with seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze medals, marked a significant milestone in the country’s Paralympic history. The contingent surpassed its previous record set at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics (19) and crossed the 50-medal mark, bringing its overall medal tally to 60 (16 gold, 21 silver, and 23 bronze).

A record 84 para-athletes represented India at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, competing across 12 disciplines, three more than at Tokyo 2020. Their determination and unwavering spirit have inspired the nation and set a new benchmark for para-sports in India.

Para-javelin thrower Navdeep Singh meets PM Modi, presents cap

Para-javelin thrower Navdeep Singh meets PM Modi, presents cap

Indian para-javelin thrower Navdeep Singh, who won the gold medal in the javelin throw F41 category at the Paris Paralympic Games, had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. Navdeep, who hails from Haryana, presented a cap to the Prime Minister and also requested him to sign his kit. PM Modi obliged and signed an autograph on Navdeep’s left arm, which is his throwing arm.

During the interaction, PM Modi also asked Navdeep about the video that went viral following his triumph. “Have you seen your video or not. How do you perform with such aggression,” PM Modi asked. To which, Navdeep replied, “Last time (Tokyo Paralympics), I had finished fourth. Before leaving for Paris, I had promised you, so the promise has been fulfilled.”

Navdeep’s gold medal was upgraded from silver after the initial winner, Islamic Republic of Iran’s Sadegh Beit Sayah, got disqualified from the final. Navdeep had initially finished second with a season-best throw of 47.32m, while Sadegh, before the disqualification, stood at the top with a Paralympic record of 47.64m.

In the jam-packed Stade de France, it was a redemption arc for Navdeep after he finished fourth in Tokyo. Navdeep was second in order among the six participants and started his campaign in the final with a foul attempt. He failed to stop the momentum and fell over the line, which resulted in a foul attempt.

In his third attempt, Navdeep dug deep and delivered his season best with a massive 47.32m throw and moved to the top spot. He maintained his lead till the end and eventually won the gold medal.

Navdeep’s victory is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has overcome many challenges in his life, including a childhood accident that left him with a disability. But he has never given up on his dreams, and his success is an inspiration to us all.

Piastri Sets Limits on Team Orders Support for Norris

Piastri Sets Limits on Team Orders Support for Norris

Oscar Piastri has clarified that he will not automatically defer to his McLaren teammate Lando Norris in every remaining race of the 2023 Formula 1 season, despite the team’s decision to implement team orders in support of Norris’s title bid.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Piastri acknowledged the principle of assisting Norris to bolster both his and the team’s standings. However, he emphasized that he would retain the freedom to compete against Norris in certain races and circumstances.

“It’s not going to be a case of me pulling over for Lando at every single race,” Piastri stated. “That’s not how any of us, including Lando, want to go racing.”

Piastri explained that the team would need to carefully consider each scenario and reward the driver who had performed better on a given weekend. He stressed that the team’s goal was not to simply prioritize Norris in every decision but to maintain a balance that would benefit both drivers and the team as a whole.

“We’re not leading the constructors’ championship, so we need to make sure we win that,” Piastri said. “It’s important we maintain that kind of trust.”

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella had previously announced that the team would employ team orders in specific situations to support Norris’s pursuit of the drivers’ championship. Norris currently trails reigning champion Max Verstappen by 62 points.

Piastri acknowledged that team orders could be challenging for drivers, but he recognized the broader context and the team’s objectives.

“I race for a team that’s given me my opportunity in F1 and a team that has given me the opportunity to win races within 18 months of being here,” Piastri said. “I have a lot of gratitude for that. The bigger picture is about more than just me.”

Piastri emphasized the team’s goal of winning both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships, acknowledging that such an achievement would be a significant milestone for McLaren.

Paralympian Navdeep Singh's Emotional Outburst Sparks Discussion on Athlete Pressures

Paralympian Navdeep Singh’s Emotional Outburst Sparks Discussion on Athlete Pressures

Paralympian Navdeep Singh’s emotional outburst at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris has sparked a discussion about the pressures and challenges faced by athletes with disabilities. Singh, who ultimately secured the gold medal in the men’s javelin F41 final, was captured on camera displaying raw frustration and using strong language after a throw that initially secured him a silver medal.

The incident occurred after Sadegh Beit Sayah of Iran was disqualified for displaying a controversial flag during the competition. Singh’s silver medal was subsequently upgraded to gold, giving India its seventh gold medal at the Paris Para Games.

In an interview with IANS, Singh admitted to being carried away by the aggression of the moment. “We have put in lots of hard work in our preparation, so it all happens,” he said. “I have practiced for five years in Delhi, so it’s in the air and water of Delhi that these things happen.”

Singh’s frustration stemmed from the fact that he had gone beyond the 42-meter mark in training but had not expected to throw as far as he did in the final. “I was fully prepared before the final,” he said. “Coach was happy with my throw, so I was also happy. I didn’t expect the distance which I threw in the final, but it all went good.”

Despite the emotional outburst, Singh expressed gratitude for the support he received from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We met out Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he wished us luck and told that Paralympians are nation’s pride,” he said.

Singh’s victory is a testament to the resilience and determination of athletes with disabilities. It also highlights the importance of providing support and understanding to these athletes as they navigate the challenges of competition and the pressures of representing their country.

Neeraj Chopra, Avinash Sable Make History for India at Diamond League Final

Neeraj Chopra, Avinash Sable Make History for India at Diamond League Final

Indian athletics is set to witness a historic moment as javelin ace Neeraj Chopra and steeplechaser Avinash Sable become the first two Indians to qualify for the prestigious Diamond League Final, scheduled to commence in Brussels on Friday.

Chopra, the reigning Olympic silver medalist, will face a formidable field that includes Paris bronze medalist Anderson Peters of Grenada and Germany’s Julian Weber. The 26-year-old Indian will aim to end the season with his second Diamond League Finals trophy, having secured a season’s best of 89.49m at the Lausanne Diamond League last month.

Meanwhile, Sable will compete alongside world No. 5 Mohamed Amin Jhinaoui of Tunisia and Paris bronze medalist Abraham Kibiwot of Kenya. The 29-year-old Indian, who became the first Indian to reach the final of his event at the Olympics, will look to cap an underwhelming season on a high.

Despite limited competition this season, Sable managed to rewrite his own national record at the Paris Diamond League in July, clocking a time of 8:09.91m. However, his subsequent performance at the Silesia Diamond League in Poland was below par, resulting in a 14th-place finish.

Among the seven javelin throwers competing in Brussels, only Peters boasts a better personal best and season’s best than Chopra. Peters also emerged victorious at the Zurich Diamond League earlier this month, making him the only thrower in the fray to have surpassed the 90m mark this year.

Chopra’s participation in the Diamond League Final has been overshadowed by a persistent groin strain that has hampered his performance. He is expected to consult a doctor after the Brussels meet to address the niggle that has troubled him for nearly two years.

The Diamond League Final will be a two-day event, featuring 32 disciplines and a host of international stars. Pole vault world record holder Armand DuPlantis, American sprint queen Sha’Carri Richardson, and superstar hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone are among the athletes expected to draw significant attention.

9-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defies Racist Abuse to Make History

9-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defies Racist Abuse to Make History

Bodhana Sivanandan, a nine-year-old chess prodigy from Harrow, England, has become the youngest-ever player to represent her country at a major international sporting event. Her selection for the England women’s team at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest has sparked both admiration and a torrent of racist abuse on social media.

Despite the vile comments, Bodhana’s family remains unfazed. “We realize there’s no pleasing everyone,” said her father, Sivanandan. “There will always be people who feel she should play for India or those who believe she shouldn’t play for England.”

Bodhana’s journey to chess stardom began during the pandemic when she discovered a chess set among her father’s belongings. She quickly became hooked and began making rapid strides in the game. At the age of eight, she became the Under-8 world champion.

Her talent has drawn attention from chess legend Judit Polgar, who recently spent time with Bodhana in Budapest. “I want to become a world champion and one of the greatest players in the world,” Bodhana told Polgar.

Despite her success, Bodhana remains grounded. “She doesn’t really take her wins too seriously nor do losses break her,” said her father. “She pretty much has a neutral reaction to both.”

Bodhana’s family is determined to support her chess aspirations while ensuring she has a well-rounded education. “You go to school only once in life,” said Sivanandan. “What you learn in school, whether it’s social skills or just having friends with whom you can talk to about things other than chess, is hard to replicate at home.”

Bodhana’s story is an inspiration to young chess players everywhere. It shows that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, regardless of age or background.

India Extends Unbeaten Streak to Four at Asian Champions Trophy

India Extends Unbeaten Streak to Four at Asian Champions Trophy

Defending champions India continued their dominant run at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in Hulunbuir, China, with a convincing 3-1 victory over Korea on Thursday, September 12, 2024.

India, who had already secured a semifinal berth with three consecutive wins, extended their unbeaten streak to four matches. Araijeet Singh Hundal (8th minute) and skipper Harmanpreet Singh (9th, 43th) were the goal scorers for India, while Jihun Yang (30th minute) netted the lone goal for Korea from a penalty corner.

India started the match aggressively and took the lead early on through Hundal, who deflected a cross from the right flank into the Korean net. Just a minute later, Harmanpreet doubled India’s advantage with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner.

Korea fought back in the second quarter and earned a penalty corner, which Yang converted to reduce the deficit. However, India maintained their composure and regained control of the game in the third quarter.

Harmanpreet extended India’s lead to 3-1 with another penalty corner goal in the 43rd minute. Korea tried to mount a comeback in the final quarter but failed to breach the Indian defense.

With this victory, India finished the league stage with a perfect record of four wins from four matches. They will now face arch-rivals Pakistan in their last league match on Saturday before advancing to the semifinals.

The top four teams from the league stages will qualify for the semifinals, while the final will be played on Sunday.

Rhythm Sangwan to Represent India in Two Events at ISSF World Cup Final

Rhythm Sangwan to Represent India in Two Events at ISSF World Cup Final

Rhythm Sangwan, the rising star of Indian shooting, will be the sole Indian competitor in two events at the season-ending ISSF World Cup Final in New Delhi. The 20-year-old will participate in both the women’s 10m air pistol and 25m pistol competitions.

Sangwan’s selection comes after double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker opted for a three-month break following her exploits in Paris. Bhaker made history by winning bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team event in Paris.

The Indian squad for the ISSF World Cup Final features nine members from the Paris Olympics team, which returned with three bronze medals. A total of 11 Indian Olympians will compete for the title of the best shooter of the year along with the world’s best in 12 individual Olympic events.

The 23-member Indian squad includes four shooters who were selected directly by the ISSF: Divyansh Singh Panwar (men’s 10m air rifle), Sonam Uttam Maskar (women’s 10m air rifle), Rhythm Sangwan (women’s 10m air pistol and 25m pistol), and Ganemat Sekhon (women’s skeet). The rest of the members were selected based on their Olympic trials rankings.

Seasoned shooters and Olympians Mairaj Ahmed Khan (men’s skeet) and Chain Singh (men’s 50m rifle 3 positions) have returned to the team. Other Paris Olympians in the squad include Arjun Babuta (men’s 10m air rifle), Arjun Singh Cheema (men’s 10m air pistol), Anish and Vijayveer Sidhu (men’s 25m rapid-fire pistol), Shreyasi Singh and Rajeshwari Kumari (women’s trap), Maheshwari Chauhan (women’s skeet), and Anant Jeet Singh Naruka (men’s skeet).

The ISSF World Cup Final will be held from October 13 to 18 at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi. The Indian shooters will look to carry on the momentum from their success in Paris and perform strongly on home soil.

Indian Chess Teams Dominate in Chess Olympiad Opener

Indian Chess Teams Dominate in Chess Olympiad Opener

The Indian chess teams made a resounding start to the 45th Chess Olympiad, with the men’s team blanking Morocco 4-0 and the women’s team dominating Jamaica, conceding only a draw.

On the top board, R Praggnanandhaa set the tone for the Indian men, defeating Tissir Mohamed in a Sicilian defense game. Vidit Gujrathi, Arjun Erigaisi, and P Harikrishna also secured comfortable victories, giving India a perfect start.

In the women’s section, R Vaishali and Tania Sachdev scored impressive wins in the first time control. However, Divya Deshmukh faced a tough battle before securing a much-needed victory, while Vantika Agarwal was forced to concede a draw in the endgame.

Despite occasional hiccups, top-seeded United States also emerged victorious, defeating Panama 3.5-0.5. Wesley So was the only American unable to force a win, settling for a draw.

In the open section, 99 teams started with wins, earning two points each. A total of 182 teams were paired, while 15 teams were still en route to Budapest.

Praggnanandhaa’s victory against Mohamed was particularly impressive, as he capitalized on an advantage in the king side to secure the first point for India. Gujrathi also displayed his dominance, knocking down a pawn in the opening against Jacques Elbilia and never looking back.

Erigaisi faced a tougher challenge but ultimately emerged victorious, while Harikrishna overcame initial resistance from Anas Mosyad to secure the vital point.

In the women’s competition, Vaishali had no trouble converting her position with black pieces, while Sachdev maintained control throughout her game. Deshmukh proved her mettle in an equal position, but Vantika was forced into a drawn endgame.

The Indian men will face a spirited Iceland in the second round, while the women will take on a strong Georgian team.

Vinesh Phogat Embraces Politics After Olympic Heartbreak

Vinesh Phogat Embraces Politics After Olympic Heartbreak

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who suffered a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024, has embarked on a new chapter in her life by joining the Congress party and announcing her political debut.

Phogat’s decision to retire from wrestling after the Olympic setback has led her to seek a new path in politics. She has filed her nomination for the upcoming Haryana elections, contesting from the Julana Constituency in Jind.

An affidavit submitted by Phogat during her nomination filing reveals insights into her financial status. She owns three cars: a Volvo XC 60 (valued at Rs 35 lakh), a Hyundai Creta (valued at Rs 12 lakh), and a Toyota Innova (valued at Rs 17 lakh). She is also repaying a loan related to one of her cars.

Phogat’s immovable property is valued at Rs 2 crore. She has Rs 1.95 lakh in hand and her Income Tax returns for the financial year 2023-24 show an income of Rs 13,85,000.

Phogat’s uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestling coach, expressed his support for her political aspirations. He stated that his daughter, Sangeeta Phogat, will now carry forward his dream of an Olympic medal in wrestling, as he prepares her for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Last Friday, Phogat and Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia (Sangeeta’s husband) joined the Congress party. Phogat will make her electoral debut from Julana in Jind district.

Mahavir Phogat emphasized that Sangeeta will now focus on the 2028 Olympics, as Vinesh’s political career has opened up a new opportunity for her. He also mentioned that Babita Phogat’s knee injuries have hindered her return to the mat.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart