Harshini Brahmavar
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Feb 15: Manish, a 17-year-old national athlete wants to beat the world’s fastest runner Usain Bolt of Jamaica and break his record. He hails from Kakkunje, Udupi, and is the son of Bhaskar Suvarna, a painter and Sulochana, a beedi worker.
Manish recently participated in a national athletic meet held at Ranchi, Jharkhand, in the 100 m (10.90) and 200 m (21.90). He was the national champion in the under-19 year boys’ category and this is the second time he participated in a national-level event.
He is known in Udupi for being an athlete par excellence. He was the winner of two gold medals in national athletics, bronze medal in the four round 100 m relay and individual championship was added to his crown. Manish secured third place in the 200 m relay competition organized at Ranchi.
He is practicing for the upcoming sports meet along with pursuing his I PUC (Arts) from MGM College, Udupi.
Manish studied in Nittur Primary and Nittur High School, Thangadgadi, Udupi, and was an active sports person who played volleyball, throwball, and kho kho. Gradually, he developed an interest in athletics.
Now he is getting private coaching under Abbas, a physical trainer at a school, and Lachchendra.
Unfortunately, a few days ago, his father’s leg was fractured in an accident and the doctor advised him two months of bed rest. He was good at studies and passed SSLC with a good score. Speaking to Daijiworld, Manish said, “I have all the support of family members. I am very eager to participate in the men’s tournament but I have to wait for two more years. I would like to continue my education in Nitte Institution and I’ll make my life in sports”.
He has received Rs 10,000 as an honour on behalf of MGM College and assured that the College will support him in all his endeavours.
Manish starts working out every day at 5 am and spends five hours training every morning at Ajjarkad Mahatma Gandhi ground and in the evenings at MGM ground in Udupi.
He has spent Rs 8,000 on travel from Udupi to Ranchi from his own pocket. The sports department, Bengaluru, has released Rs 3,800 for each athlete as DA. He does not get any financial assistance from any other quarter.
Based on his speed, Manish got a call from Bangalore to participate in relay which will be held at Mangala Stadium.
In recognition of his achievements, he has been honoured by various organizations such as Billava community, Lions Club, Kutpady, Kediyoor, and so on. His uncle however lamented that local organizations had failed to recognize his talent.
His trainer Lachchendra says, "He is a blessed child. If he gets systematic training in athletics, he could turn out to be a great sports person in future."
He added, "In Udupi, the encouragement for sports is very less when compared to other districts. Kishan Hegde Kolkebailu has promised to provide all support. We have trained Manish with tyres, hill training, and other exercises. Special coaching requires funds. I hope for the best given his spirit."
The budding athlete is hoping to become a star in the sports field, but the athletic association needs to promote his talent by providing financial assistance. Here's wishing Manish accomplishes every feat and brings glory to India at the international level.