Telangana power lifter fights against all odds to take part in international championship
This woman from Sangareddy has been breaking all barriers and fighting against all odds to achieve her dream of lifting our national flag on the international podium.
Hyderabad: Sports persons aspiring to represent their country is not something new, but achieving the goal is a challenge in itself.
This woman from Sangareddy has been breaking all barriers and fighting against all odds to achieve her dream of lifting our national flag on the international podium.
Her dream and inspiration to represent India began when she was 13-year-old, the year when Karnam Malleswari won the bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Ever since then, Inturi Rekha, made her mind to consider weightlifting as her goal. But she sustained a severe shoulder injury, eventually deciding to take up powerlifting as her long-term goal. A mother of three girls, Rekha always challenges anyone when they say ‘you can’t do it’. Rekha has won accolades by participating in several state and national level championships, including ‘Strong Woman of India’ that she grabbed in the year 2021.
“Even though I have proven my mettle, I had to run from pillar to post, due to lack of funds, when it comes to participating in any tournament,” says the 33-year-old.
Rekha is currently preparing for the international powerlifting championship to be held in Moscow. However, the expenses which include flight charges, costumes, knee wraps, and accommodation altogether come to more than Rs 5 lakhs.
‘’Born into a middle class family and with none to back us, it is tough even when both the govts refuse to offer support,” adds Rekha, a divorcee. She even adds that several MLA’s and government officials did not come to her rescue, despite her pleas for help.
Though LB stadium is there to continue practice sessions, it is tough to travel all the way from Sangareddy to the city along with her children. Also the stadium at times gets crowded, adds Rekha.
Like any other individual, the pandemic was a troublesome journey for her too, as she lost her job working as a gym trainer. “Since then it has been tough looking after my children and helping them attend online classes. I am yet to pay my three months of house rent,” adds Rekha.
TSWREIS has assured to help by offering a job and asking her to train the kids over there. However, there was not any further communication from the society, Rekha tells Telangana Today.
Participating in national championships is definitely crucial as it may fetch us government jobs in sports quota. The single mother says that she has sent her elder daughter to north-east to represent Assam as there are fair chances of jobs, if she wins any state or district championship.
“Though I can achieve my dream if the funding goes well, there are still many athletes who are killing their dreams for not getting proper facilities and encouragement,” opined Rekha.
If you wish to donate and see her reach the international, below mentioned are the details.
rekha.trainer1@okicici
Phone: 7330778111
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