Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)
Mangaluru, Sep 21: Many dream about taking part in international events. Taking part in Commonwealth power lifting championship happens to be a daunting proposition. A youth from the city pursued his dreams, took part in this championship, and won gold medal. Now, a huge burden of debt is staring at him, and he has no idea how to clear it.
Pradeep Acharya from Urwa Store in the city has won two gold and three silver medals in the Commonwealth power lifting championship. Besides, he also was the winner of the 'best lifter' award. He raised loan to finance his participation, and by the time he came from South Africa, he says he has been getting demand from the bank to pay interest on the loan.
Pradeep says he has been taking part in power lifting competitions since 2013, but he has not got any financial assistance from the government. He has to spend about Rs 30,000 on food alone each month, and he currently works as consultant in a gym. But his earning is not enough to fund his food and training regimen, it is learnt.
Pradeep represented India in the Commonwealth championship held at Potchefstroom, South Africa between September 10 and 17. He was adjudged the best lifter under 'Bench Press' section.
Pradeep, who is from a very poor family, lost his father early and thereafter was brought up by his mother, Prema. After securing B Com and MBA degrees, Pradeep got attracted towards power lifting after witnessing the success of Vincent Prakash Carlo from the city. In 2013, Vincent introduced Pradeep to this sport.
Pradeep who competed in 83 kg section in the Commonwealth power lifting championship, won two gold and three silver medals. He will be taking part in the Asian Classic Powerlifting Championship, Alleppey between December 4 to 10.
Although Pradeep wants to participate in competitions, financial burden involved deters him from doing so. He earnestly expects some support from the government so that he can go ahead and win many more laurels.