IOC and Odisha Secure Semifinal Berths in MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup Hockey

IOC and Odisha Secure Semifinal Berths in MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup Hockey

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the former champion of the MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup All-India hockey tournament, has secured its place in the semifinals after a 3-1 victory over Odisha in a Pool-B contest. With this win, IOC has assured itself of a spot in the knock-out stage.

IOC, studded with Olympians and Internationals, has played hard and ticked all the boxes in this year’s tournament. The team has scripted its third successive win, leaving nothing to chance. Odisha, from Pool-B, is the other team that has made it to the last four.

In Pool-A, Indian Army tamed Tamil Nadu 3-1 with a delectable mix of aggression and caution. However, the picture in Pool-A is still unclear as to who will reach the semifinals. Tamil Nadu, after its wonderful win over Maharashtra, flattered to deceive against a strong Army unit.

Army was the better side throughout the match, be it in attack, defense, or midfield. Tamil Nadu will rue its chances in the fourth quarter. Trailing 1-3 in the fourth quarter, the host had four back-to-back penalty corners but wasted each one of them.

Paralympics Bronze Medalist Hokato Hotozhe Sema's Inspiring Journey of Overcoming Adversity

Paralympics Bronze Medalist Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s Inspiring Journey of Overcoming Adversity

Hokato Hotozhe Sema, a Paralympics bronze medalist, has shared his inspiring journey of overcoming adversity and achieving sporting success. In 2002, a landmine explosion during an anti-terrorist operation in Jammu & Kashmir claimed his left leg below the knee, leaving him physically and emotionally scarred.

“I was mentally disturbed and in deep depression,” Sema recalled. “I never thought I would be like this. I asked myself how I would walk because I don’t have one leg.”

After his leg amputation, Sema faced immense challenges. The swelling and pain made it difficult to heal and walk properly. However, a visit to Pune’s artificial limb center changed his life. The Indian Army provided him with an artificial limb, giving him hope and motivation.

“I have not seen an artificial leg till then in my life,” Sema said. “Indian Army provided me with an artificial limb with a lot of hope. Because of that I am being able to stand in front of you.”

Inspired by others at the center who faced even greater physical challenges, Sema began to walk again, slowly and with determination. “It was like how a new-born child was taught how to walk by holding him,” he said.

In 2016, Sema was encouraged to take up shot put by a senior army official. He quickly excelled in the sport, competing in the National Para Athletics Championships the same year. His rise in para-athletics has been nothing short of inspiring.

At the Paralympic Games in Tokyo, Sema secured a bronze medal in the men’s F57 category final with a career-best throw of 14.65 meters. He became the first Paralympics medalist from northeast India and the first Indian to win a medal in shot put at the Paralympics.

Sema’s journey is a testament to his resilience, determination, and the support he received from the Indian Army. He has not only overcome adversity but has also become a role model for others who face physical challenges.

East Bengal Extends Durand Cup Lead with 3-1 Victory over Downtown Heroes

East Bengal Extends Durand Cup Lead with 3-1 Victory over Downtown Heroes

Emami East Bengal FC extended its dominance atop the Durand Cup Group A standings with a convincing 3-1 victory over Downtown Heroes FC at the Kishore Bharati Stadium on Wednesday. The Kolkata giants showcased their attacking prowess, while Downtown Heroes fought valiantly despite being reduced to 10 men.

Madih Talal opened the scoring for East Bengal in the 29th minute with a well-taken free-kick. However, Downtown Heroes responded swiftly, with Aafreen Basharat equalizing just a minute later. The match remained evenly poised until the 36th minute when Spanish midfielder Saul Crespo converted a penalty to restore East Bengal’s lead.

The second half saw East Bengal maintain its control of the game. Substitute Jesin T.K. sealed the victory in injury time with a clinical finish, ensuring that East Bengal remained unbeaten in the tournament.

Meanwhile, in Group D, Indian Army continued its impressive run with a 3-0 triumph over Assam Rifles at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur. Alan Thapa, Pradeep Singh, and Sunil B. found the back of the net for the Army, who now sit second in the group behind host Jamshedpur FC.

Indian Army Officer Becomes Youngest Indian Referee at Paris Olympics

Indian Army Officer Becomes Youngest Indian Referee at Paris Olympics

Lieutenant Colonel Kabilan Sai Ashok, a 42-year-old Indian Army officer, has made history by becoming the youngest Indian referee at the upcoming Paris Olympics. Ashok’s journey to this prestigious role is a testament to his unwavering commitment, exceptional skills, and the transformative power of the Indian Army.

Ashok’s military career began as a soldier, but his determination and talent propelled him to the officer rank. He served with distinction in the elite 9 Para (Special Forces) unit, where he participated in numerous counterterror missions in Jammu and Kashmir. His involvement in the 2016 surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir further solidified his reputation as a combat-hardened warrior.

In a remarkable transition, Ashok left the Special Forces to join the Army’s Physical Training Corps (APTC). His passion for boxing, honed during his time as an under-19 national champion, led him to become a highly respected referee and judge. Ashok’s expertise earned him the distinction of being the only Indian referee to be fast-tracked from 2-star to the highest 3-star status in International Boxing Association (IBA) competitions.

Ashok’s selection as a referee for the Paris Olympics is a testament to his exceptional abilities and the Indian Army’s commitment to excellence. He is one of the few Indians to have served as referees in Olympic history, and his appointment is a source of pride for the nation.

Beyond his Olympic role, Ashok holds the presidency of the boxing committee of the International Military Sports Council. He also serves as a boxing administrator at the Army Sports Institute in Pune, where he mentors aspiring Olympians.

Ashok’s uniform proudly displays the para wings and the Balidan (sacrifice) badge, symbols of his service in the Special Forces and his unwavering dedication to his country. His journey from combat-hardened soldier to Olympic referee is an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve greatness through perseverance and passion.

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