Athletes high on hope before Asian Para Games in Jakarta

NEWDELHI:THE Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and actor Shah Rukh Khan gave a rousing send-off to the athletes on Wednesday ahead of the third Asian Para Games, from October 6-13.

The Asian Para Games will see players participate in an array of events including athletics, swimming, badminton, chess and powerlifting.

“A massive 300-member team including about 200 athletes, coaches, support staff, escorts, staff and officials will be flying to Jakarta as part of the Indian contingent,” president, PCI, Rao Inderjit Singh, said.

India’s medal hopes will be pinned on Paralympic medallists Deepa Malik, Devendra Jhajharia, Mariappan Thangavelu, Varun Bhati at the continental event.

“In 2016, at the Rio Olympics, India was not able to win any gold medals. The entire country was sad. At that time our para athletes took it upon themselves to raise the Indian flag. We got four medals including two golds. Two of our athletes broke world records,” said Rao Inderjit.

Shah Rukh, who heads the Meer foundation that supports the para athletes, said: “My motivation of coming here isvery selfish, I used to play sports when I was a child. I got hurt and after that I was home for over a year.

“I thought my life is over but when I see these players I get inspired. I have come to take inspiration and thank these para athletes for motivating me.”

Deepa, who became the first Indian woman to win a medal in Paralympic Games by clinching silver at the 2016 Rio Paralympics in shot put, said: “When an athlete wins a medal its not just his/ her medal its the country’s. I am thankful to Shah Rukh because whatever he associates with gets more traction. His association with us will increase awareness about the games,” she said.

In the Incheon edition of the Para Asian Games, India returned with 33 medals including three gold, 14 silver and 16 bronze.