Pune judo players showed their mettle by winning gold at the 9th National Blind Judo Championship at Lucknow but the participation for International championship looks difficult as the judo players need sponsors for their trips.
Renuka Salve (70kg) and Laxmi Jadhav (78kg) earned top spots in their respective bouts have qualified to represent India at international tournaments — International Para Judo Antalya Cup, Turkey (April 5-10); IBSA Junior Grand Prix, Baku, Azerbaijan (May 20-28) and Judo Grand Prix, Walsall, England (June 16-19).
These players may have to miss the events in Turkey and Baku for lack of funds. Their coach, Rachana Dopeshwar is using her money and seeking sponsors to ensure that the players get a chance to participate in the England contest.
The Pune Blind School had sponsored the girls for the England tournament in 2019. “The girls will be unable to take part in the first tournament in Turkey scheduled for the first week of April because of lack of funds and visa issues. I am trying to get sponsors for the Baku tournament (May 20-28) and will do my best to take these girls to Judo Grand Prix, Walsall, England (June 16-19),” said Dopeshwar.
Dopeshwar trains judo players for free. While Salve is completely blind, Jadhav is partially blind. In her cause, Dopeshwar is supported by Vijay Barate, founder of Sahyadri National School, Warje and Jayant Pawar, founder of Solaris Club, Kothrud, who both have provided space for training for free.
Jadhav and Salve won their gold bout via Ippon move under 10 seconds. Ippon is a move that gives players the highest point.
Image Credits : Hindustan Times
