They are second to none

Para Badminton Nationals sees differently-abled shuttlers’ love for the sport

They defy all odds, challenge disability and display indefatigable spirit. The differently-abled shuttlers from across the country proved that they are second to none by showcasing their amazing spirit at the Para Badminton Nationals that began at RRC indoor stadium here on Sunday.

Hundreds of these shuttlers descended on the venue with the bubbling enthusiasm of a child.

Immense enthusiasm

Some of them are short in stature, some with a defect in the leg or have lost one arm either to polio or some other medical problem. But none of them seem to be short of zeal to give their best on the court.

A. Nalini of Haryana, 49-year-old winner of Asia Cup bronze and World Games silver in singles and gold in mixed doubles, stands as a shining example of this rare breed of Indian sports.

“It is an awesome feeling to be here as initially we were not sure whether this National would be held,” she says. “We are all so passionate about our sport. It is definitely a challenge to compete in these events,” she said panting as she had to climb stairs. “Frankly, we don’t even have facilities for regular practice,” she echoes the sentiments of fellow shuttlers.

“But I must say the Haryana government has really been great in supporting us by providing cash incentives and jobs for achievers in our category too,” says Nalini, who is employed with the National Hydro Electric Power Project in Faridabad.

So is the case with Tamil Nadu’s Shivamani, winner of gold in singles and silver in doubles in the last Nationals.

“We seem to be destined to face all kinds of challenges. Well, that’s what makes us more determined and passionate. We just love this sport,” she says, even while expressing a desire to meet the ace shuttler P.V. Sindhu.

Arjuna awardee Ramesh Tikaram, founder of Badminton for Differently Abled, says he started all this in 2001 having gone through the trials and tribulations himself.

“I know the kind of agony the differently-abled shuttlers face. To solve at least some of the problems of these spirited players, I started this national body. And I am glad that we have produced 30 world champions in different categories,” says Tikaram, while brushing aside the allegations on his misappropriation of funds collected from the players for earlier international meets. Interestingly, Tikaram also happens to be the only person in differently-abled category to receive the Arjuna award in athletics and badminton.

“I feel more States should encourage these brand of champions. After all, everyone plays for the pride of the country and so be treated with some dignity,” he signs off.