Fighting all odds, Shiva Kumar strikes gold in National Para Swimming
This Telangana swimmer topped in 100m butterfly stroke in 1:25.34s in S-9 disability class in Bengaluru
Hyderabad: Swimming was his passion from a young age despite being physically handicapped because of his polio-affected right leg. Encouraged by his father Krishna Mallesh, Kusnoor Shiva Kumar swam in ponds in his village Singeetham of Raikoda Mandal in Sangareddy district. But hailing from a poor family ground, as his father was a daily labourer, the young swimmer could not dream big. He concentrated on his studies and secured over 90 per cent in Inter exams before getting admission into Nizam College here. But his love for swimming did not fade.
Shiva Kumar pursued his desire and soon his luck changed for good when he met his coach and mentor Dinesh Rajoria accidentally in 2017. Three years training and today he made Telangana State proud when he won his maiden gold in 100m butterfly stroke in 1:25.34s in S-9 disability class in the National Para Swimming that concluded in Bengaluru on Monday. “It was a tough race. This was my third attempt. I worked hard for this national as for the last two years there was not much of competition. I was a comfortable winner in the end, thanks to my coach,’’ he said.
Coach Dinesh Rajoria
Hailing from a small village, Shiva Kumar never knew big events are held for disabled people also. “I was aware of these competitions once I got a seat in Nizam College and dreamt big when Tamil Nadu’s Mariyappan Thangavelu won the high jump gold in 2016 Paralympic Games in T42. I got motivated. Since my first love was swimming, my interest grew and I practiced at the Razor Swimming Club, near Tank bund,’’ said the 23-year-old.
Rajoria, who coaches at this pool, spotted Shiva Kumar and straightaway told him that he would train him. “I saw his hunger, energy and enthusiasm. When I heard his background, I told him I would offer him all the help. Today I’m very happy that Shiva has won the gold. It is a victory for his determination and hard work,’’ said the 47-year-old coach, who came from Punjab to the city in 2010 and has trained national swimmers from the city.
Shiva Kumar, who completed his MSc in Zoology from Osmania University, trains for more than six hours at Blue Dolphin Swim Club, who incidentally sponsor him now. “Rajoria sir has come as a God for me. Ever since I trained under him in 2017, I’m able to bring good results. My aim is to compete in Asian, Commonwealth Games and Olympics and bring laurels to the country. This is the start,’’ said Shiva Kumar.
Shiva Kumar stays at Rajoria’s place. “He is under my care since three years as his father cannot afford his expenses. I would be happy if any financial help or a secured job is provided for this talented swimmer to pursue his dream,’’ said Rajoria.
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