Category Archives: Sports

‘I am from Bengaluru, but praying for Bagan’

Sports

N. Ulaganathan, one of the finest wingers from India, is a legend at the Kolkata club

N. Ulaganathan, one of the finest wingers to have come out of Bengaluru and India, spent eight years at Mohun Bagan, where he acquired the status of a club legend.

He will be at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium for Sunday’s I-League title-decider. His loyalties are clear. “I’m from this city, but whatever I am today is only because of Bagan. Naturally, I’m praying that Bagan wins,” he said.

A number of former Bagan players, including Shibaji Banerjee and Compton Dutta, are travelling to Bengaluru for the clash. “Both were my team-mates and we are lifelong friends. I’m looking forward to our reunion,” Ulaganathan said.

Sanjoy Sen, Bagan’s head coach, expressed delight over the vociferous support his side is expected to receive. “It’s very inspiring for the boys,” he said. “It’s great to see so many people coming from different parts of the country and supporting us. Even they are dying to see us win the title after such a long time.”

His counterpart Ashley Westwood sees things in a different light. “Mohun Bagan have managed to gather some fans because they’ve got something to play for all of a sudden,” the BFC head coach said.

“You don’t normally see Mohun Bagan (fans) anywhere unless they’re winning; so that speaks for itself. Our fans are with us through thick and thin. But it’s nice for Mohun Bagan (fans) to turn up once for a change.”

Should Bagan win, Kolkata will spin out of control, Ulaganathan felt. “When we were there, people would come in tens of thousands to the airport,” he said. “The celebrations will be immense this time.”

N. Ulaganathan, one of the finest wingers from India, is a legend at the Kolkata club

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru / Bengaluru Bureau / Bengaluru – May 31st, 2015

1st All India Open FIDE Rating Chess : City’s Thejkumar triumphs

Records, All, Sports

Panaji :

City’s IM M. S. Thejkumar of South Western Railways, Mysuru, taking part in the Ist TTCA All India Open FIDE Rating Chess Tournament 2015 at Panaji, Goa, won his final round tie against Goa’s Audi Ameya (Rating 1924) and clinched the title with 8.5 points from nine rounds yesterday.

IM M S Thejkumar won a cash prize of Rs. 50,000/- along with a trophy.

With this performance, Thejkumar earned 11.4 points to his present rating points of 2450.

M.S. Thejkumar was followed by Akshat Khamparia (MP) with 7.5 points, Navalgund Niranjan (TN) with 7.5 points, M. Vijay Anand (TN) with 7.5 points and J. Ramakrishna (Andhra Bank) with 7 points in second to fifth place respectively.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports  News / Saturday – May 23rd, 2015

AITA Women’s Tennis Tourney

Sports

City’s Varunya, Moulika duo clinch doubles title

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City’s upcoming women’s tennis player Varunya Chandrashekar who won the women’s doubles title in the AITA Women’s Tennis Tourney in Raipur on Thursday, partnering Moulika B. Ram is seen with the trophy.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports News / Saturday – May 02nd, 2015

The receptionist who blazed a cricketing trail

Records, All, Sports

Jacinta Kalyan, a ground curator at Chinnaswamy stadium takes pride in being the only woman doing that job in the country

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Jacinta Kalyan, AKA Jessi, is the go-to ‘man’ at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Be it accounting, greeting visitors or handling ticket sales – Jessi is a master of all trades and a proven asset for the Karnataka State CRICKET Association. What sets her apart from the rest is that she is perhaps the only woman stadium curator in the country.

“Well, I don’t know if I am the only one. But I sure am one,” Jacinta was at her modest best when Mirror spoke to her on Sunday. “And hopefully, there will be more.”

 
Currently, Jacinta is one of the three curators at the stadium along with Sriram and Prashanth. She has been taking care of the pitch for over a year but she made her IPL debut only after the showers greeted the city before Royal Challengers Bangalore’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 13. On Saturday too, when rain delayed RCB’s tie against Kolkata Knight Riders, Jacinta was seen running around the ground overseeing the removal of covers for the pitch. “I have been doing it since the Ranji Trophy last year,” she said.

 
She also supervises pitch work and likes to call her staff “my boys”. “The reason I was appointed to this post is because the KSCA needed someone with a commanding voice. I also know my boys well since we have worked together over the years and that made me a good choice for this job too,” she said, all while asking one of her boys – Ravi – to check if water had been drained properly from the pitch.

 
The big responsibility is not a worry for fearless Jessi. “I am a woman but that does not change the work that has to be done. That’s why it’s been no different,” she said. “That said, there are the usual challenges of lethargy when you keep asking yourself ‘Why the hell should I go out in this boiling summer’ or ‘Who will work in this rain’. But I believe that if you’re really interested in doing something, nothing can stop you – even a hurricane.”

 

You know you have made it big when everyone passing you by salutes you. And Jacinta has made it big. An old-timer at the KSCA, she first joined as a receptionist in 1993 after finishing Class 10.
“I was born in a village in Kanakapura in 1974. I was first a receptionist near the terrace rooms at the stadium. I was then transferred to handle the accounts for a while. A few years ago, I also started handling ticketing. Now I am basically telling the boys to cover the pitch properly and also learning how exactly to maintain the grass on the ground,” she said. “There are various technicalities regarding the ground I am yet to learn like the constant level of grass to maintain, pores for draining water, etc. It’s all part of the process.”

 
CRICKET has always been a passion for Jacinta. The thought of a KSCA job sprang to mind while she was watching TV at home. “I was fond of these cricketers I saw, on screen, the likes of Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev. So when it came to making a career out of handling a cricket stadium, I naturally said yes,” said Jacinta, who now lives in KR Puram.

“I also came to Bangalore at that time and joined the VV Puram evening college. So mornings I was the receptionist at the stadium and evenings I would be a college girl. It was good plan.”

source: http://www.bangaloremirror.com / Bangalore Mirror / Home> Bangalore> Others / by Aravind Suchindran & Durgesh Kumar, Bangalore Mirror Bureau / May 04th, 2015

Comfortable and happy in the saddle

Sports

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The young participants of the ‘Bangalore Horse Show’, which was held recently in the ASC Centre near HAL, were nothing short of an enthusiastic lot who have proved themselves in the various events.

These horse riders of Agaram Riding and Polo Academy, who were  aged between 7 and 15, spoke about their journey, which involves a lot of hard work and dedication.

Angel Beulah, who studies in Bishop Cottons Girls’ School, says that her passion and love for horses made her go to the next level of riding. She describes it as a “wonderful experience”.
Being the youngest participant in the show, she also believes that without the support and help from her family and friends, she couldn’t have made it this far. Bhavish, who has been training hard for a month now, won the prize for the ‘Best Young Rider’.

He says, “My main motive was to win, no matter what hurdles may come along the way.”

Smaranvita, 15, and Anoushka, 14, explain that it wasn’t always an easy path towards victory. They reveal that they were constantly demotivated and didn’t receive proper guidance initially, all because they were girls. But their admiration for horses and hard work helped them prove everyone wrong.

Raghav and Arihant, brothers from Haryana, have been training to ride for about a year now. The younger one, Raghav says that he was initially terrified of riding the majestic creatures and has had his share of falls.

They say that it took about two weeks to understand the tricks of coordinating with the horses and the two brothers spent as much time as possible to gain a better understanding of how the animals should be taken care of.

The brothers, like many of the other participants, wish to become international riders one day and represent India in the Olympic games. Mukta, who is immensely fond of horses, explains that after riding, she fed the horses jaggery and carrots, apart from caressing them from time to time.

“It takes a lot of time to get used to the horses and initially we got a different horse every day so that it would help us become comfortable with them, before we were properly trained,” she adds.

Vardaan from Rajasthan began riding because her father inspired her. She says that he practised everyday before a horse show for about 10 to 15 days, from 4.30 am to 7 am.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Supplements> MetroLife / by Neha BS, Bengaluru / May 04th, 2015

Industrialist turned kite flyer organizes summer camp on kite building and kite flying

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Sports
Sandesh Kaddi, industrialist turned international level kite flyer, is going to conduct a camp in ‘kite building and kite flying’ in this summer.
Sandesh Kaddi, industrialist turned international level kite flyer, is going to conduct a camp in ‘kite building and kite flying’ in this summer.

Belagavi :

Sandesh Kaddi, industrialist turned international level kite flyer, is going to conduct a camp in ‘kite building and kite flying’ in this summer. It’s a first time such activity will be taking place in Belagavi city.

Sandesh is a habitual kite flyer since his childhood and taken this hobby seriously since past 5-6 years. He is a regular participant at the international kite festival held at Gujarat annually while took part in kite flying events at abroad including China and Dubai. According to Sandesh, kite flying is an inherited hobby to him as his father, paediatrician Dr M S Kaddi has great craze of kites.

Since the former MLA Abhay Patil is hosting international kite festival in Belagavi since past four years annually, it has created hundreds of kite enthusiasts in city and providing huge platform to budding talents. “I have conducted several workshops in schools and colleges on kites but it’s a first time I am embarking to hold summer camp during vacations”, Sandesh Kaddi said to the TOI. Camp will be in two groups- one is for 7-15 age group children and second group will be the age group of 15 onwards.

Prime idea behind holding this camp is bringing out kids from TV and video game culture and encouraging them to exhibit their kite flying art in nature, and get fun along with friends and family. Kite flying is also being considered as a best therapy to release the stress. “I have conducted workshops on kite flying for the kids of orphanage, HIV positives and disable kids organized by Rotary Club and other social organizations”, he said.

During the camp, kids will build their own kites and fly them out. They will be given guidance on every stage of kite building and taught the art of kite flying.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Hubballi / by Ravindra Uppar, TNN / March 23rd, 2015

Driven to great heights

Sports

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His age did not let him drive on the public roads. But his talent never stopped him from driving off road. Chandan Gowda, a third-year BBM student of Dayananda Sagar Institutions, was only 16 when he first took to driving on autocross. He was issued a special licence by the ‘Federation of Motor Sports Club of India’ (FMSCI) and it was just a stepping stone to move into more competitive rallies. The young boy, who drove a non-professional rally car in Chikkamagaluru autocross then, was ranked the youngest driver in the championship.

“I always loved riding and driving. My father, who is also my mentor, is interested in cars too,” says Chandan. Starting off as a professional driver in 2009, Chandan has taken part in several rallies in Chikkamagaluru, Coorg, Mudigere, Bengaluru, Nasik, Chennai and many other places.

Topples and crashes were part of his journey. There were times when his parents opposed him from taking part in these rallies due to safety issues. But nothing seemed to have detered his passion for driving. Instead, all these experiences made him love the sport more and he says, “It was all part of a learning experience and it has helped me become who I am today.”

After the autocross, his first official rally was for the ‘Coffee Day Rally’ in Chikamagaluru. Driving no fancy car, he ranked third in the rally and proved that it is the driver that matters more than the car. Emerging as a winner, he was recognised by the sponsors and from then began his journey to the competitive world.

He took part in the same rally the next year in 2013 and he moved a step closer by ranking second. In 2014, he was approached by the Volkswagen company who supported him with subsidiary parts and he was back with a bang in his new car Polo 1600cc where he ranked second once again. “I was registered under Indian Rally Championship (IRC) and ranked among the top five rallyists,” he informs.

He did face initial opposition from his parents. But once he achieved success in the field, his parents became more supportive than ever. “My parents have encouraged and supported me to a great extent,” he says.

He is also grateful to his tuner and well-wisher, Monish, an automobile engineer who helps him give his best in all the rallies. “He tunes my cars in the rallies and it would have been impossible to be where I am today without his support,” he says.

An active rallyist, he also has great passion for riding and he owns a ‘Triumph Daytona 675’. A very ambitious youngster who has role models like Gaurav Gill, Lohit Urs and Girija Shankar; he wants to see himself emerge as the Champion in ‘Asian Specific Rally Championship’ and also in the ‘World Rally Championship’. “I want to take part in more rallies and do better each time. I hope to find more sponsors who would help me achieve my dream,” wraps up the young rallyist.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Supplements> MetroLife / by Prajna GR, Bengaluru / DHNS – April 02nd, 2015

Panambur beach to host Indian Open of Surfing from May 29

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Sports, World Opinion

Mangaluru :

Panambur Beach in Mangaluru will witness Indian Open of Surfing (IOS), national surfing event by Surfing Federation of India (SFI), from May 29 to 31.

International surfers from Australia and cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who is the International Surfing Ambassador of India, are expected to take part as judges for the event. IOS is being organised for the first time in Karnataka. More than 100 surfers from various states of the nation are expected to take part in four categories of Stand up Paddle Board surfing championship to be held in three days. Added attraction during the event will be demonstrations on kite surfing and wind surfing by expert surfers of SFI.

SFI vice-president Ram Mohan Paranjape said that the IOS event will be held in association with Karnataka tourism department, Dakshina Kannada district administration, Panambur Beach Tourism Development Project (PBTDP), Mantra Surf Club of Mulky, New Mangalore Port Trust and corporate sponsors. “We have made a presentation to tourism minister R V Deshpande and he has agreed to provide government support. Main objectives of SFI are promoting surfing and thereby provide platform for young talents. Surfing will be held in four categories – under 16 years, 17 – 22 years, 23 – 28 years and above 28,” he said.

While it will require nearly Rs 25 lakh for the conduct of the event, Rs 6 lakh will be reserved for prize money for winners in all categories, Ram said. “We will make all necessary arrangements including transportation, food and accommodation for surfers and judges during their stay in Mangaluru. All necessary arrangements will also be made to take care of the safety aspects of surfers. Lifeguards, on spot medical team, ambulance and professional surfers will be deputed for the safety of surfers,” he added.

Deputy commissioner A B Ibrahim said the district administration will extend all support for the success of the event.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Mangalore / by Vinobha K T, TNN / March 30th, 2015

Talented cricketer – J Suchith

Sports

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Cricket is a very popular game in our country and after the exploits of the Indian team which has been doing well in the International scene, and inspired by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s feats, many youngsters have taken up cricket as their career. Mysuru has also its share of producing talented cricketers who have gone on to represent the country and on these lines is upcoming allrounder J. Suchith who has gone on to represent the State. Suchith is presently representing Karnataka senior squad in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy South Zone T20 Cricket Tournament being played at Kochi and is performing well with the ball. Suchith was also part of the triumphant Karnataka Ranji and Irani Trophy team which won the title this year. He is our ‘Star This Week.’

In the ongoing T20 Tournament at Kochi, Suchith played a big part in Karnataka’s win over Tamil Nadu with figures of three for two. He also performed well against Andhra (one for 11), Hyderabad (one for 29) and Goa.

Suchith performed well this season for the Karnataka U-23 team both with the bat and the ball. He played a major part in Karnataka’s 6-run win over Rajasthan in the Col. C.K. Nayadu Trophy tie played at SDNR Wadiyar Grounds, Mysuru, recently. He returned with a match haul of 12 for 181 and was instrumental in helping his team register a exciting win.

Suchith, a left-arm spinner took six for 115 in Rajasthan’s first innings and helped Karnataka gain a vital first innings lead. In the second innings, Rajasthan, needing 176 runs to win, were bowled out for 169 in 71 overs. Suchith returned with excellent figures of six for 66 (28-8-66-6) and helped his team win by a six run margin. Suchith also scored a vital 28 (5x4s) in Karnataka’s second innings with the willow.

Earlier, Suchith played a big part in Mysore Warriors winning the ‘Karbonn Smart’ Karnataka Premier League 2014-15. Suchith emerged as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament with 16 wickets. He also bowled well in the finals and took three for 38 against Belagavi Panthers.

A very energetic fielder, this lad impressed everyone with his allround capability and is one of the find of the tournament. Suchith has played for Karnataka in the one-dayers and has represented the State in the U-16, U-19, U-22 levels and is knocking the doors for recognition in the higher level in the days to come.

Suchith learnt his cricket and played for the Mysore Gymkhana in our city. He has represented Mysore Zone in different age category tournaments in the Inter-zonal level and has performed well.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports News / Monday – March 23rd, 2015

University of Mysore honours Sports Persons

Sports
University of Mysore yoga team which won the bronze medal in the All India Inter-University Yoga Competitions 2014-15, held at Kurukshethra University recently was honoured by the Department of Physical Education, UoM in a function held at the University Sports Pavilion yesterday. Seen in the picture are (standing from left) Huchagowdar (Manager), S.Sanjay (Bronze medalist -JSS College, Nanjangud) and B. Ravi (Coach). (sitting from left) Dr. C. Krishna, Director, Dept. of Physical Education, UoM and P.M. Somashekar, Vice-Chairman, SAK
University of Mysore yoga team which won the bronze medal in the All India Inter-University Yoga Competitions 2014-15, held at Kurukshethra University recently was honoured by the Department of Physical Education, UoM in a function held at the University Sports Pavilion yesterday. Seen in the picture are (standing from left) Huchagowdar (Manager), S.Sanjay (Bronze medalist -JSS College, Nanjangud) and B. Ravi (Coach). (sitting from left) Dr. C. Krishna, Director, Dept. of Physical Education, UoM and P.M. Somashekar, Vice-Chairman, SAK

Mysuru :

The Department of Physical Education, University of Mysore honoured its outstanding sports persons for the year 2014-15 with cash awards and mementos at the University Sports Pavilion yesterday.

S.Sanjay, who won the Bronze medal in the All India Inter-University Yoga competitions 2014-15 held at Kurukshetra, Manager Huchagowdar and Coach B. Ravi were honoured with Rs.10,000/- cash prize each. Sanjay was also given the Mysuru University Sports Scholarship award for his performance.

The other award winners:

University Inter Collegiate Inter Zonal Games Team championship- Men and Women-Rs.20,000/- each. University Inter Collegiate Athletic Meet Team championship- Men- Post Graduate Sports Council, MGM-15,000/-; Women: Bharathi College, Bharathinagar-Rs.15,000/-. University Inter-collegiate Cross Country Team championship- Men- Govt. FGC, K R Pet & Women-Teresian College, Mysuru- Rs.10,000 each. University Inter-collegiate Athletic meet record holders- C.M. Sowmya- Bharathi College, Bharathinagar-5km walk-Rs.5000/- and T.S.Ravi, DoS in PE & SS, UoM; Broad Jump and High Jump and Mr. Mysuru University Title Winner-V Nagaraju, GFGC, Siddartha Layout, Mysuru-Rs.5000/-.

The prizes to the winners were given away by SAK Vice Chairman P.M. Somashekar.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports News / Friday – March 27th, 2015