Life
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
Madurai
Thiruvananthapuram
But, the spirit is strong
HIS MUSCLES are willing to reveal a `Sampsonian' might. His indomitable spirit also portends promising results.
But these two factors are hardly of any significance for this disabled Madurai lad, who has received an invitation from the National Paralympic Committee of India to represent the country in the `BUSAN FESPIC Games 2002' at Busan, Korea, from October 26 to November 1.
He is expected to be there on by October 22. Having been chosen for competing in shotput, discuss and javelin events, J. Ranjith Kumar of Thirunagar should be in high spirits.
But he is not. He faces the ignominy of missing what could easily be a lifetime event.
For, he lacks the most important thing — the financial sources — to participate in the events. The National Paralympic Committee (NPC), being a voluntary organisation, has expressed its inability to provide him any financial assistance.
Ranjith has no other go than to mobilise funds from sponsors. Running from `pillar to post' has only ensured partial success for Ranjith. Of Rs.72,500 required for his trip, which is inclusive of air fare, visa expenses, etc., he has been able to mobilise only up to Rs.35,000.
No doubt. There have been Samaritans. Even recently, Ranjith was honoured by the International Association of Lions Club in Madurai, in recognition of his past achievements, with a tri-cycle.
But unfortunately for him, time is running out. He has been asked to transfer a substantial part of the expenses to the NPC's account number immediately.
It was his determination to achieve something tangible despite his shortcoming that saw the participation of this Madurai lad in various sports events meant for the disabled.
The laurels he recently won in a sports event held in Bangalore made him the cynosure of all eyes.
It had also pepped up his spirits to realise a higher dream like participating in an international event. And he has the opportunity knocking at the door too.
Philanthropists willing, a last minute miracle too is possible for this lad, at a dial of 522489.
By Krishnamoorthy R.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Life
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
Madurai
Thiruvananthapuram
|
