14-Oct-2008 204
Ace Orissa woman lifter Ranu Mohanty today threatened to quit sports if she did not get necessary financial assistance to participate in the World Powerlifting Championship to be held in Canada from November 2 to 7.
"I have bright chance to win gold or silver medal in the 75 kg weight class. But in order to participate in the World meet, I have to pay Rs 2.35 lakh to the Indian Powerlifting Federation towards airfare and security deposit for dope test," the two-time Asia champion said at a media conference in Bhubaneswar.
"Being unemployed, I am unable to meet the cost. My appeal to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, public sector undertakings and corporate houses have proved in vain. Except Orissa Cricket Association, which has assured an assistance of Rs 50,000, no one responded to my appeal," she added.
`Strong Woman of India` Ranu lamented that despite winning six gold and seven silver medals at the continental level and one bronze at the world stage, she was still `begging` for sponsorship.
"I am tired of begging. It hurts my selfrespect. I will quit lifting if financial support for the Canada championship does not come my way quick," announced Ranu, who has the added the credential of winning National medals in weightlifting as well.
Economic hardship had also forced the Berhampur lifter turn her back to sports earlier. But thanks to the support of city-based training centre, Utkal Karate School, she has continued to bring laurels for the state and the country.
Ranu also alleged that she been a victim of prejudice by the State Government. "Recently, Orissa Mining Corporation and the State Directorate of Sports provided Rs 2 lakh and Rs 40,000 respectively to a 50-year-old powerlifter for his participation in the veteran category of the World meet. But my appeal for the tough open category was been ignored. What kind of justice is this," asked disheartened lifter.
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