Differently-abled athletes aim to win laurels at international events

MADURAI: Disability is not a hindrance to achieve in sports for the 10 differently-abled people from the state. These 10 players are all set to take themselves up to the next level to take part in an international event meant for the differently-abled at the 8{+t}{+h} Tunisia International Athletic Meet in June. The 10 athletes are also undergoing rigorous training to qualify for the Asian Para Games scheduled in South Korea in November 2014.
K J Anothony, S Gurunathan, U P Ilayaraja, B Rasathi and M T Pongodi of Madurai, S Thirumalaikuamar of Rajapalayam, M Santhamuthuvel and V Porchezhiyan of Vellore, P Padaithalaivan of Sivaganga and A Anand of Trichy, associated with the Tamil Nadu Paralympic Sports Association are the players hoping to participate in the Asian Para Games. A few of them, vastly experienced in national and international events, are already in their 30's. However, their thirst to achieve in life has not faded.
Events like discus throw and shot put are the favourites for these athletes. Apart from Anand, who would also be participating in the 200 and 400 metres running, others are confined to just the two events. Their aim does not stop with just the Asian Para Games. The determined athletes' ultimate aim is to win medals in the Para Olympic Games and bring fame to the nation.
The journey so far has not been easy for the players who have already proved themselves in several national and state-level games. A few among them like Antony Rasathy and Gurunathan have already showcased their talent in international events conducted by International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports (IWAS) federation. Gurunathan had already experienced in participating in international game, now called as Asian Para Games in 2006.
"I am able to participate in events like these because of my husband who is also a differently-abled person. There won't be any support from the government for the qualification rounds. We have to bear it on our own or seek help from philanthropists," said Rasathi, a 34-year-old mother.
Even as hundreds of differently-abled persons in the state are achieving several feats there has been disparity compared to normal athletes in job preference and cash awards. Players in states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi are treated well with cash awards for even national-level achievements, while Tamil Nadu players who have been the undisputed champions for years together are yet to enjoy the government's support, rued the players.