When these girls bagged three medals in team events at the 24th Rhythmic Gymnastics National Championship for Juniors and Seniors, they knew that the years of effort they had devoted to training was beginning to yield results. The event was organised under the auspices of the Gymnastic Federation of India (GFI) in Hyderabad recently.

Bhavana Boypati, Keerthana G., Khushi G. Jain, Rhea Bhansali and Yashika Bhandari made up the team, which is the first ever to win a medal for the State in rhythmic gymnastics at the national level. They bagged two silvers and one bronze medal at the event.

It is to their credit that they won these medals despite the State lacking proper facilities for the indoor sports. Bengaluru has a dearth of practise facilities for gymnasts and this has been a long-standing grouse of athletes.

The five girls, who practise at the Sports Promotion Association (SPA) located in the Jayanagar Sports Complex, aspire to further their dreams and represent the country, and win medals in the Olympics.

Much-needed exposure

Bhavana said that the national event gave her the exposure she needs to improve her performance. Keerthana dreams of winning a gold medal for the country in the 2024 Olympics. Khushi credits her success to her coach G. Manohar Kamath and is hoping to participate in international events.

“I learnt a lot from gymnasts from other States and their approach to practise,” said Rhea, while Yashika concurred that the national exposure was good for the team.

The girls are hoping to get access to Federation of International Gymnastics (FIG) approved apparatus and quality sports gear.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru / by Sudhindr A.B. / April 05th, 2018