WomenInSports Archives

Visually Impaired Athlete Rakshitha Raju Qualifies for Paralympics 2024

By Nilay August 24, 2024 0

Rakshitha Raju, a visually impaired athlete from Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, has made history by becoming the first Indian female athlete to qualify for the Women’s 1500m Running T-11 Category at the Paralympics 2024 in Paris. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her unwavering determination and the transformative power of sports.

Born with a visual impairment, Rakshitha’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by challenges and triumphs. Losing her parents at a young age, she was raised by her grandmother, who herself has speech and hearing impairments. Despite these obstacles, Rakshitha’s passion for athletics ignited during her school days at the Ashakirana School for the Blind.

Under the guidance of her physical education teacher, Rakshitha discovered her talent for running. It was during one of her early competitions that she met her current coach and guide runner, Rahul Balakrishna. Together, they have worked tirelessly to hone her skills and prepare her for the rigors of international competition.

Rakshitha’s journey to the Paralympics has been supported by CBM India, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities. Through their Inclusive Sports program, CBM India provides tailored support to Para athletes, including Rakshitha. This support has been instrumental in her preparation for the Paralympics, enabling her to focus on her training without the burden of financial constraints.

Speaking about her selection for the Paralympics, Rakshitha expressed her gratitude and excitement. “I am incredibly honored and excited to represent India at the Paris Paralympics. This journey has been filled with challenges, but each step has brought me closer to my dream. I am grateful to CBM India for their unwavering support and belief in my talent.”

Mr. Sony Thomas, Executive Director of CBM India, hailed Rakshitha’s achievement as a testament to the transformative power of sports. “Rakshitha Raju’s journey to the Paralympics 2024 is a true example of the transformative power of sports. At CBM India, we are deeply honored to have supported Rakshitha in her athletic career. Her story captures her spirit of resilience and determination. Rakshitha’s success reflects our broader commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of life. We are immensely proud of her achievements and look forward to cheering her on as she represents India on the world stage.”

Rakshitha’s selection for the Paralympics is not only a personal triumph but also a significant milestone for India. Her participation in the Women’s 1500m Running T-11 Category will inspire countless others with disabilities to pursue their dreams and break down barriers.

Categories: Others

Vinesh Phogat Considers Political Debut in Haryana Assembly Elections

By Nilay August 20, 2024 0

Ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who narrowly missed out on an Olympic gold medal in Paris, is reportedly considering a foray into politics. Sources close to her have hinted at the possibility of her contesting the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections.

Despite her previous statements that she would not pursue active politics, Vinesh has reportedly been approached by several political parties eager to secure her support. The wrestler’s impressive performance at the Olympics, where she was disqualified from the final due to being overweight, has garnered significant attention and made her a potential political asset.

Vinesh’s return to India was met with a rousing welcome, with Congress MP Deepender Hooda and other family members garlanding her at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. However, the party she intends to join remains uncertain.

Sources close to the Phogat family have suggested that Vinesh could potentially face off against her cousin, Babita Phogat, in the Haryana Assembly elections. Additionally, Bajrang Punia and Yogeshwar Dutt, two other prominent wrestlers, may also contest the elections.

Vinesh’s decision to consider politics has sparked speculation about her future in wrestling. In a recent social media post, she hinted at a possible return to the sport, despite her earlier decision to retire after the Paris Olympics disqualification.

The wrestler’s disqualification from the gold medal match due to weight issues has raised questions about the challenges faced by female athletes in India. Vinesh has been an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and has used her platform to highlight the need for better support and opportunities for female athletes.

As Vinesh weighs her options, her fans and supporters eagerly await her decision on both her political and sporting future. Her potential entry into politics could have a significant impact on the Haryana Assembly elections and the broader landscape of Indian politics.

Categories: Others

Arshad Nadeem Calls for Modern Facilities for Women Athletes

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s Olympic javelin throw gold medalist, has called for the government to invest in modern facilities for women athletes. Nadeem, who returned home to a hero’s welcome after winning Pakistan’s first Olympic gold since 1984, has received numerous cash prizes, cars, and other gifts. However, he believes that the government should prioritize the development of sports infrastructure and education for women.

“We badly need facilities for our women and even men to acquire higher education in our area,” Nadeem said on ARY News. “Nowadays, young athletes need to be given the best facilities.”

Nadeem, who appeared on the show with his wife Rashida, also spoke about the buffalo gifted to him by his father-in-law for winning the Olympic gold medal. “I was a bit surprised with the announcement,” he said with a smile. “My father-in-law is a very rich person and has a lot of land. If only he had given me 4-5 acres of farm land instead of the buffalo.”

Rashida revealed that she knew about Nadeem’s injury problems before the Olympics but kept it away from other family members. “When he went for the Games, I couldn’t sleep for three days,” she said. “I just kept on praying that he would remain fit and return with a gold medal.”

Nadeem’s long-time coach, Salman Butt, said the ace javelin thrower will return to training in a month’s time. “Arshad knows that he has to work harder to maintain his position,” Butt said. “There is great competition in the javelin throw in the international field.”

Nadeem’s victory has sparked a renewed interest in sports in Pakistan. He hopes that his success will inspire other young athletes, especially women, to pursue their dreams. “I want to see more women from Pakistan competing at the highest level,” he said. “We have the talent, but we need the facilities and support to succeed.”

Categories: Others

Vinesh Phogat’s Historic Olympic Journey: Triumph and Heartbreak

By Nilay August 16, 2024 0

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded wrestler Vinesh Phogat for her remarkable performance at the Paris Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman grappler to reach the final. During a meeting with Indian athletes and medal winners at his residence, PM Modi acknowledged Vinesh’s achievement, stating that it was a matter of immense pride for the nation.

Vinesh’s historic feat was unfortunately marred by her disqualification from the women’s 50 kg gold medal bout due to being weighed “few grams over” the permissible limits on the morning of the final match. The heartbreaking setback prompted Vinesh to announce her retirement from wrestling on social media.

Despite the disappointment, Vinesh’s illustrious career boasts three Commonwealth Games golds, two World Championships bronze medals, and one Asian Games gold medal. She also emerged as the Asian champion in 2021.

Vinesh appealed her Olympic disqualification to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS), seeking a joint silver medal in the 50kg weight category. However, the Ad-Hoc Division of the CAS dismissed her petition, dashing her hopes of securing her maiden Olympic medal.

India’s contingent at the Paris Games comprised 117 athletes competing across 16 sports, including archery, athletics, badminton, boxing, equestrian, golf, hockey, judo, rowing, sailing, shooting, swimming, wrestling, table tennis, and tennis.

The Indian team secured six medals at the Paris Olympics, including one silver and five bronze. While expectations were high for a historic performance, India narrowly missed surpassing its previous best at the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where they won seven medals (1 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze) and ranked 48th.

Categories: Others

Manu Bhaker Makes History with Multiple Olympic Medals for India

By Nilay August 15, 2024 0

Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker has etched her name in history as the first Indian woman to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Bhaker shared her journey to the podium at the recently concluded Paris Olympics 2024, where she secured two bronze medals.

Bhaker’s Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020 ended in heartbreak due to a pistol malfunction. However, she returned to Paris with a renewed determination and a meticulously planned training regime. “We trained in a way that we were hoping for medals,” she revealed. “We planned in a way that things turn out good and this worked in our favour this time.”

Bhaker’s success in Paris is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the growing popularity of shooting in India. “Any achievement is enough to give us motivation,” she said. “I think India has a huge amount of talent. I think it will take some time but we will have great talents in the future.”

Bhaker’s medals are particularly inspiring for young girls who aspire to pursue shooting as a career. “I think the parents would be much more flexible with the girls, and the people would accept shooting more after this celebration,” she added.

The 22-year-old’s bronze medals came in the women’s 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team event, where she partnered with Sarabjot Singh. She narrowly missed out on a third bronze in the 25m pistol, finishing a commendable fourth.

Bhaker’s achievements have not only brought glory to India but have also set a new benchmark for Indian shooters. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering focus serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country.

Categories: Others

WTA CEO Portia Archer Sets Ambitious Goals for Gender Equity and Fan Engagement

By Nilay August 15, 2024 0

Portia Archer, the newly appointed CEO of the WTA, has outlined her ambitious goals for the organization, emphasizing fan engagement, player advocacy, and gender equity.

Archer, who joined the WTA after a successful career in basketball administration, has already embarked on a “listening and learning” tour, attending tournaments and meeting with players. She believes that tennis fosters a strong sense of community and family, which she finds inspiring.

With over two decades of experience in sports business, Archer aims to enhance the fan experience and continue supporting players. She views the WTA as the premier platform for women’s tennis and a catalyst for elevating women in sports.

Archer is committed to bridging the prize money gap between men and women at WTA tournaments. She believes that the WTA’s commitment to pay equity is a testament to its leadership in gender equality.

Archer acknowledges the progress made in women’s sports but emphasizes that there is still much work to be done. She believes that the WTA’s plan for pay equality is a roadmap to achieving gender parity not only in sports but also in society.

Archer is inspired by the legacy of WTA co-founder Billie Jean King, who fought for equal prize money at the US Open in 1973. She believes that standing on the shoulders of those who came before her will help the WTA achieve its long-term vision for gender equality.

Categories: Tennis

Manu Bhaker Aims for Multiple Olympic Medals After Historic Paris Feat

By Nilay August 13, 2024 0

Ace Indian pistol shooter Manu Bhaker has set her sights on winning multiple medals at future Olympic Games, following her historic feat at the Paris Games. The 22-year-old became the first Indian athlete in the post-independence era to win two Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games.

Bhaker scripted history by winning bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team event, where she partnered with Sarabjot Singh. She narrowly missed out on a third bronze in the 25m pistol, finishing a creditable fourth.

No Indian athlete has ever won more than two individual medals at the Olympics. “I think we all work hard to win medals. But if that happens (winning more than 2 individual medals at Olympics) then that would be great. The aim is to work hard and better this performance in the future,” Bhaker told PTI Videos.

“I am aiming to win many more Olympic medals for India,” added Bhaker, who returned to the country after participating in the closing ceremony.

Bhaker had the honor of being India’s flagbearer alongside veteran hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh at the closing ceremony on Sunday. “Being the flag bearer was the opportunity of a lifetime, I am grateful that I got this opportunity and will cherish this for a lifetime,” she said.

“I have a very friendly bond with Sreejesh bhaiya. I have known him since I was a young kid. He is always very friendly, helpful, and kind. He made it a lot easier for me in the closing ceremony.”

Bhaker had returned to India last week but flew back to Paris for the closing ceremony, where she was the joint-flagbearer. She was accompanied at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by her coach Jaspal Rana and mother Sumedha.

“I am happy for her. I am happy for the players. When I went to Paris, I met the Hockey team, Aman Sehrawat, Neeraj Chopra. I just hope all these athletes keep winning medals and all the mothers of this nation will be happy,” said Bhaker’s mother.

Categories: Others

Algerian Boxing Champion Imane Khelif Returns Home a Hero Amidst Gender Controversy

By Nilay August 13, 2024 0

Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif returned to a hero’s welcome in Algeria on Monday, alongside fellow medalists Kaylia Nemour and Djamel Sedjati. Khelif, who faced a gender controversy during the Olympics, expressed her triumph as a victory for Algerian women.

Khelif’s journey to the women’s 66kg title was marked by controversy. The International Boxing Association (IBA), led by Umar Kremlev, had previously disqualified Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting from its world championships, claiming tests showed “these are men.” However, the IBA had allowed both boxers to compete in Tokyo three years ago.

Addressing the “relentless campaign” against her, Khelif thanked the Algerian people for their support. “I wanted to show the strength of performance and the presence of women in general, and Algerian women in particular,” she said.

Khelif’s victory is seen as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the strength of Algerian women. “Algerian women are an example and a model for the whole world,” she declared. “Thanks to God, we have restored Algeria’s honor and flown the Algerian flag in Paris, which is the most important thing.”

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) took over the boxing competition in Paris after losing patience with the IBA. The IBA’s actions have raised concerns about the organization’s commitment to fairness and equality in boxing.

Khelif’s triumph and the controversy surrounding it have sparked a wider discussion about gender equality in sports. Her victory serves as an inspiration to women and girls around the world, demonstrating that they can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.

Categories: Others

Tennis Canada’s Purple Haze: Advancing Gender Equity in the Sport

By Nilay August 11, 2024 0

Tennis Canada’s “Game. Set. Equity.” Campaign: A Purple Haze for Gender Equality

Tennis Canada has transformed its prestigious ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events in Montreal and Toronto into a vibrant canvas for gender equity advocacy. The national governing body has adorned the umpires’ chairs with the iconic purple hue of International Women’s Day, symbolizing its unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls in and beyond the sport.

This initiative is not merely a cosmetic gesture but a comprehensive strategy that has already yielded tangible results. Tennis Canada’s “Game. Set. Equity.” campaign, launched as part of its post-pandemic recovery efforts, has evolved into a holistic approach to advancing gender equality throughout the Canadian tennis ecosystem.

“The message is clear: the umpire’s chair sits atop our sport, where we believe all women and girls have a place,” Tennis Canada declared in a statement. CEO Gavin Ziv emphasized, “Our commitment is crystal clear. We want to move gender equity forward across the Canadian tennis ecosystem and will continue to build awareness of our initiatives in order to do so.”

The campaign has received a significant boost from a 10-year sponsorship from National Bank. According to the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the partnership has already supported over 2,000 women and girls in nearly 40 events across Canada. A substantial $50,000 has been invested in grassroots gender equity initiatives, and the Canadian events have pledged to offer equal prize money by 2027.

Thursday marked a special day dedicated to promoting gender equity at both tournaments. On-site activations, special guests, and the illumination of Montreal’s Olympic Stadium Tower in purple highlighted the occasion. This event followed Tennis Canada’s third annual conference for gender equity in sports, aptly titled “Unmatched.” Venus Williams, a trailblazer in securing equal prize money for women at Wimbledon, delivered the keynote address.

Tennis Canada’s “Game. Set. Equity.” campaign is a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable sport. By using its high-profile tournaments as a platform for advocacy, Tennis Canada is inspiring change and empowering women and girls to reach their full potential in tennis and beyond.

Categories: Tennis

Emilie Bydwell: Trailblazing Coach Leads USA Women’s Rugby to Olympic Bronze

By Nilay August 1, 2024 0

Emilie Bydwell’s historic achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympics has not only etched her name in the annals of rugby but also marked a significant milestone for women’s sports. As the first female head coach to lead a team to an Olympic medal, Bydwell has shattered barriers and inspired countless aspiring athletes.

Bydwell’s journey to the pinnacle of coaching began in Canada, where she honed her skills as a player. Her exceptional talent earned her accolades such as three-time All-American and 2007 Collegiate Player of the Year. She made her debut for the USA Eagles in 2008 and captained the team at the 2016 Olympics.

After transitioning to coaching in 2019, Bydwell’s impact on USA women’s rugby has been profound. As interim head coach, she guided the senior women’s sevens team to a silver medal at the 2019 Pan American Games. Her coaching prowess extends to developing the women’s sevens pathways, where she has mentored the USA Falcons and the U18 Women’s team, leading the latter to a silver medal in the 2016 European Championships.

Bydwell’s vision and dedication have also shaped the USA Women’s Sevens Academy, which has produced six graduates who have earned their first caps at the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. Her unwavering commitment to women’s high performance has driven transformative changes across the senior sevens, XVs, and age-grade programs.

At the Paris Olympics, Bydwell’s team showcased an electrifying brand of rugby, culminating in a thrilling bronze medal victory. Her leadership and tactical acumen were instrumental in the team’s success, making her an inspiration for both athletes and coaches alike.

Bydwell’s achievement is not only a testament to her exceptional abilities but also a symbol of the growing recognition and support for women in sports. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring female coaches and athletes, demonstrating that with determination and passion, anything is possible.

Categories: Others

Visually Impaired Athlete Rakshitha Raju Qualifies for Paralympics 2024

Vinesh Phogat Considers Political Debut in Haryana Assembly Elections

Arshad Nadeem Calls for Modern Facilities for Women Athletes

Vinesh Phogat’s Historic Olympic Journey: Triumph and Heartbreak

Manu Bhaker Makes History with Multiple Olympic Medals for India

WTA CEO Portia Archer Sets Ambitious Goals for Gender Equity and Fan Engagement

Manu Bhaker Aims for Multiple Olympic Medals After Historic Paris Feat

Algerian Boxing Champion Imane Khelif Returns Home a Hero Amidst Gender Controversy

Tennis Canada’s Purple Haze: Advancing Gender Equity in the Sport

Emilie Bydwell: Trailblazing Coach Leads USA Women’s Rugby to Olympic Bronze

NO SHIPPING CHARGES

CUSTOMER SERVICE

100% AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS

SECURE SHIPPING

Main Menu

Search For Products

Login

Tag: WomenInSports

NO SHIPPING CHARGES

CUSTOMER SERVICE

100% AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS

SECURE SHIPPING

Main Menu

Search For Products