PM Modi Honors Indian Olympic Contingent with Six Medals

PM Modi Honors Indian Olympic Contingent with Six Medals

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a reception at his residence in New Delhi to honor the Indian contingent that returned from the recently concluded Paris Olympics with a remarkable haul of six medals. The contingent included history-making shooter Manu Bhaker, who showcased the pistol with which she clinched two bronze medals.

The Indian men’s hockey team, which secured its second consecutive bronze at the Paris Games, presented the Prime Minister with a stick signed by all the players. The team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh and featuring the recently retired PR Sreejesh, posed with the Prime Minister, proudly displaying their bronze medals.

Bhaker, who became the first Indian to win two medals in a single edition of the Olympics, enthusiastically explained to the Prime Minister the intricacies of the pistol she used to shoot down two bronze medals in the 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed event.

Sarabjot Singh, Bhaker’s teammate in the 10m air pistol mixed event, also engaged in a conversation with the Prime Minister. Swapnil Kusale, who won a bronze in the 50m rifle 3 positions, shared his experiences with the Prime Minister.

Wrestler Aman Sehrawat, who secured a bronze in the men’s freestyle 57kg category, presented the Prime Minister with an India jersey bearing his signature.

Silver medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was absent from the reception as he had traveled to Germany for medical consultation and potential participation in the Diamond League Meetings in Europe.

Prime Minister Modi addressed the contingent members and interacted with several of them, including shuttler Lakshya Sen. Tokyo Olympics medallists Lovlina Borgohain (boxing) and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting) were also present at the reception.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha accompanied the contingent.

Earlier in the day, the contingent members attended the historic Red Fort, where Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day.

Wrestler Aman Sehrawat Promoted to OSD by Northern Railways After Olympic Bronze

Wrestler Aman Sehrawat Promoted to OSD by Northern Railways After Olympic Bronze

Northern Railways Honors Olympic Medalist Aman Sehrawat with OSD Promotion

The Northern Railways has bestowed a prestigious honor upon wrestler Aman Sehrawat, who recently made history by becoming India’s youngest Olympic medalist at the Paris Olympics. In recognition of his remarkable achievement, Sehrawat has been promoted to the position of Officer on Special Duty (OSD).

Sehrawat’s journey to the Olympic podium was marked by unwavering determination and exceptional talent. At the tender age of 21, he showcased his prowess in the 57kg freestyle category, securing a bronze medal and etching his name in the annals of Indian sports history. His triumph contributed to India’s impressive tally of six medals at the Paris Games.

In a ceremony held at the Northern Railway Headquarters, General Manager Shri Shobhan Chaudhuri expressed his gratitude to Sehrawat for his exceptional performance. “Shri Aman Sehrawat has brought immense pride and glory to the nation by winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics,” Chaudhuri said. “His dedication, hard work, and perseverance have been an inspiration to millions.”

Principal Chief Personnel Officer Shri Sujit Kumar Mishra officiated the promotion ceremony, appointing Sehrawat as OSD/Sports. This appointment recognizes Sehrawat’s outstanding contribution to Indian wrestling and his potential to continue inspiring future generations of athletes.

Sehrawat’s achievement is a testament to the unwavering support he has received from the Northern Railways. The organization has consistently provided him with the necessary resources and training to excel in his sport. His promotion to OSD is a fitting tribute to his dedication and the Railways’ commitment to fostering sporting excellence.

IOA Explores Legal Options After CAS Dismisses Vinesh Phogat's Medal Plea

IOA Explores Legal Options After CAS Dismisses Vinesh Phogat’s Medal Plea

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has expressed shock and disappointment after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed Vinesh Phogat’s plea for a silver medal in the women’s 50kg event at the Paris Olympics. The CAS released a statement on Wednesday confirming the dismissal of the application filed by Phogat on August 7, dealing a significant blow to her Olympic medal hopes.

Phogat had appealed to CAS after she was disqualified from the final of the 50kg event at the World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade in September 2022. She was found to be overweight by a mere 100 grams, which resulted in her being barred from competing in the final. American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt claimed the gold medal in her absence.

In her appeal, Phogat demanded that she be given a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who lost to her in the semi-finals but was promoted to the summit clash following the Indian’s disqualification.

The IOA has voiced concerns over the decision of the Sole Arbitrator at CAS, which upheld the ruling in favor of United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOA believes that the total disqualification of an athlete for such a weight infraction on the second of two days warrants a deeper examination.

The IOA also highlighted the stringent and arguably inhumane regulations that fail to account for the physiological and psychological stresses athletes, particularly female athletes, undergo. It is a stark reminder of the need for more equitable and reasonable standards that prioritize athletes’ well-being.

In light of the order of the CAS, the IOA continues to stand in full support of Ms. Phogat and is exploring further legal options. The IOA is committed to ensuring that Vinesh’s case is heard. It will continue to advocate justice and fairness in sports, ensuring that the rights and dignity of athletes and everyone in the sports fold are upheld at all times.

Indian Wrestling Performance at Paris Olympics Disappoints

Indian Wrestling Performance at Paris Olympics Disappoints

India’s wrestling performance at the Paris Olympic Games has been underwhelming, with only one bronze medal to show for their efforts. Aman Sehrawat’s bronze in his maiden Olympic appearance is the lone bright spot, but the overall performance has been deemed ordinary by many.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Sanjay Singh, attributes the lackluster showing to the protests that Indian wrestlers staged for over a year. The protests, sparked by allegations against former wrestling body chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, disrupted the wrestlers’ training and preparation.

“The protests that took place for 14-15 months disturbed the entire wrestling fraternity,” Singh told India Today. “The wrestlers in other categories struggled as they could not practice without national and international tournaments.”

Apart from Sehrawat and Vinesh Phogat, who impressed in Paris, other wrestlers like Anshu Malik, Reetika Hooda, Nisha Dahiya, and Antim Panghal failed to make an impact.

Phogat, who was disqualified from the final for exceeding the weight limit, is still awaiting a verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on her plea for a silver medal. CAS has established an ad hoc division in Paris to handle Olympic cases, and a decision is expected by August 16.

Phogat’s disqualification was a major disappointment for India, as she was a strong contender for gold. She had reached the final by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals.

The 29-year-old Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling after her disqualification. Her departure is a significant loss for Indian wrestling, as she has been one of the country’s most successful wrestlers in recent years.

Australian Breakdancer Raygun Gunn's Unique Performance Sparks Social Media Frenzy

Australian Breakdancer Raygun Gunn’s Unique Performance Sparks Social Media Frenzy

Australian Breakdancer Raygun Gunn Sparks Social Media Frenzy at Paris Olympics

Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, an Australian breakdancer, became a viral sensation at the Paris Olympics for her unique and unconventional performance. Her routine, which featured a move likened to a kangaroo hopping, drew both praise and ridicule from fans worldwide.

Despite losing all three of her match-ups, Gunn’s performance ignited a storm of social media memes and comparisons, including one to Homer Simpson rolling around on the floor. Her choice to wear the green-and-gold team uniform, rather than the urban streetwear favored by other competitors, also drew criticism.

Gunn, a 36-year-old Sydney university lecturer, faced mockery from some for her unconventional style. However, she remained unfazed, stating that she was “always going to be the underdog” and that she aimed to showcase her creativity and Australian character.

Her performance even caught the attention of Jimmy Fallon, a popular American talk show host, who joked about her name and her zero-point score. Australia’s formal request to stop making fun of Gunn further fueled the online chatter.

Despite the negative attention, Gunn’s performance also garnered support from some who praised her for her originality and for representing Australia with pride. Will Swanton, a reporter for The Australian newspaper, urged people to “lay off” Gunn, highlighting her cheerful demeanor and patriotism.

Gunn herself took to Instagram to encourage others to embrace their individuality, stating, “Don’t be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never where that’s gonna take you.”

Cancer Survivor Volunteers at Paris Olympics Despite Chemo

Cancer Survivor Volunteers at Paris Olympics Despite Chemo

Anasuya Mathur, a Delhi resident and avid athletics enthusiast, defied the odds to volunteer at the Paris Olympics despite her recent cancer diagnosis. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, Mathur was determined to experience the Olympic spirit firsthand.

Despite initial resistance from her doctor, Mathur found a physician who accommodated her Olympic aspirations into her chemotherapy schedule. She spent a week and a half at the La Defense Arena, where she witnessed the swimming competitions and the emergence of new aquatic stars.

Mathur’s Olympic journey began in London 2012, where she volunteered at the athletics venue. She has since participated in every Summer Olympics except Tokyo 2020, which was impacted by the pandemic. While she initially hoped to work at the Stade de France for the athletics events, she opted to assist at the swimming venue with her longtime Olympics manager.

Despite enjoying the swimming competitions, Mathur expressed disappointment at missing the javelin final featuring Indian star Neeraj Chopra. However, she emphasized that her 10 days at the Olympics were an unforgettable experience.

Mathur’s unwavering determination and passion for the Olympics serve as an inspiration to all. Her story highlights the transformative power of sports and the resilience of the human spirit.

GoSports Foundation Supports 13 Indian Athletes in Paris Olympics

GoSports Foundation Supports 13 Indian Athletes in Paris Olympics

Nikhat Zareen, Chirag-Satwik, and Lakshya Sen, three promising Indian athletes, are among the 13 receiving support from the GoSports Foundation in Paris. Founded by former tennis player Deepthi Bopaiah, the foundation aims to empower athletes and foster their Olympic aspirations.

Bopaiah, the CEO of GoSports, has been actively involved in the Paris Olympics, cheering on Indian athletes and exploring opportunities for future growth. While Sen narrowly missed a medal in badminton singles, the other athletes made significant progress in their respective events.

GoSports played a pivotal role in pairing Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddyy, who were previously playing with different doubles partners. “Doubles can make a big difference in tournaments like the Thomas Cup and Olympics,” said Bopaiah, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships.

The foundation supports athletes across various disciplines, including sailing, shooting, athletics, and table tennis. “We provide comprehensive support, including physios, coaches, sports psychologists, and nutritionists,” said Bopaiah. “Our goal is to create role models and inspire the people of India.”

While medals are a coveted outcome, Bopaiah believes that the journey and effort of each athlete should be celebrated. “The process and systems we put in place will ultimately lead to success,” she said. “That’s how we approach our work in sports.”

Indian Sport: Paris Disappointment Raises Questions About Governance and Athlete Commitment

Indian Sport: Paris Disappointment Raises Questions About Governance and Athlete Commitment

India’s Olympic aspirations took a hit at the Paris Games, falling short of expectations and raising questions about the state of Indian sport. While funding and infrastructure have improved, concerns have emerged regarding athlete commitment and the effectiveness of sports governance.

Post-Paris reviews have shifted the focus from blaming the government to scrutinizing the athletes themselves. Prakash Padukone’s call for introspection has sparked a debate about the responsibility of athletes to deliver results.

However, it’s important to note that funding is not the sole determinant of success. Ukraine and Israel, with limited resources, have achieved significant medal hauls. England’s impressive performance highlights the need for India to reassess its sports strategy.

Reforms are necessary to improve sports governance and create an ecosystem that fosters excellence. A National Sports Board, consisting of experts and independent directors, could provide vision and policy guidance.

TOPS, the flagship program for elite athletes, should be upgraded and granted administrative independence to enhance efficiency and athlete support.

Addressing the unprofessionalism and incompetence of National Sports Federations (NSFs) remains a challenge. Implementing the Sports Code could improve accountability, but its realization seems distant.

Despite the setbacks, there are positive signs. Sports has gained prominence, and parents and industry are investing in athletes. However, it’s crucial to manage expectations and avoid unrealistic hype.

Ultimately, the success of Indian sport depends on the hard work and dedication of athletes. However, a supportive ecosystem and effective governance are essential to unlock their potential and achieve Olympic glory.

Ashwini Ponnappa Disputes SAI's Financial Support Claims

Ashwini Ponnappa Disputes SAI’s Financial Support Claims

Indian doubles badminton specialist Ashwini Ponnappa has expressed shock and disappointment over the Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) claim that she received significant financial assistance in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics. Ponnappa asserts that she received minimal individual support and that her request for a coach was denied.

SAI’s document details financial support provided to Paris-bound athletes, including Rs 4,50,000 under TOPS and Rs 1,48,04,080 under ACTC for Ponnappa. However, Ponnappa claims that the ACTC funds were spent on all national campers, not solely on her.

“I’m absolutely shocked… I don’t mind not getting money but telling the nation that I got money is ridiculous. I haven’t received it,” Ponnappa told PTI. “I don’t have a specific coach. As for my personalized trainer, I’m paying for him myself.”

Ponnappa, 34, is a decorated doubles player with Commonwealth Games medals and Olympic appearances to her credit. She joined forces with Tanisha Crasto in December 2022 and qualified for Paris in May 2023, after which they were included in TOPS.

Despite her achievements, Ponnappa feels she has not received adequate support in recent years. “The last year I haven’t been supported and it’s ok. But you can’t say I’ve been given Rs 1.5 crore,” she said.

SAI maintains that the ACTC funds were used for Ponnappa’s travel, stay, food, and competition expenses as part of the Indian team. However, Ponnappa disputes this, stating that she has not received the funds directly.

Ponnappa’s concerns highlight the challenges faced by Indian athletes in securing adequate financial and coaching support. Despite her disappointment, she remains grateful for the support she has received in the past.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Medal Hopes Hinge on Landmark CAS Decision

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Medal Hopes Hinge on Landmark CAS Decision

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Medal Quest: A Landmark Case at CAS

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s fight for a silver medal at the Paris Olympics has reached a critical juncture at the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS). Phogat’s lawyer, Vidushpat Singhania, has expressed cautious optimism about the outcome, despite the historically low success rate at CAS.

Singhania acknowledged the challenges in securing a favorable verdict, but emphasized the significance of Phogat’s case. “We are asking for a landmark decision from the arbitrator,” he said. “It’s a little difficult, but let’s hope something big happens.”

Phogat’s disqualification from the women’s 50kg freestyle gold medal match due to an extra 100 gm weight during weigh-in has sparked controversy. She has appealed to CAS, demanding a joint silver medal.

The ad hoc division of CAS has extended the deadline for the Sole Arbitrator, Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett, to give a decision until 5:00 p.m. on August 13, 2024. This extension suggests that the matter is being taken seriously by the arbitrator.

Singhania highlighted the importance of public support for Phogat. “Let’s all pray for Vinesh,” he said. “Let’s hope she gets a medal. Even if she doesn’t get it, she is a champion.”

Phogat’s case has garnered widespread attention in India, with many expressing their support for her. The outcome of the CAS hearing will not only determine Phogat’s Olympic medal status but also set a precedent for future cases involving weight-related disqualifications.

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