Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Oct 12: Powerlifters Ravikumar Ballalbagh and Jagadeesh Kaavu, who won medals at the Asian Benchpress Championship held recently in Dubai were felicitated by their well-wishers, sports lovers, friends and relatives at Anjaneya Vyayama Shale, Ballalbagh.

Ravi Kumar secured gold medal in masters category where as Jagadeesh Kaavu won bronze in Asian Benchpress championship.

Ravikumar Ballalbagh said, “It was a great opportunity to participate in the Asian Benchpress Championship. I have already participated in more than 50 tournaments held in India and abroad. I won medals in majority tourneys which I participated. But Asian Benchpress Championship is special for me. It was a tough competition. But my hard work gave me victory. I thank my coaching team and supporters.”

Receiving the felicitation, Jagadeesh Kaavu said, “We, 25 athletes took part in the competition and won 11 gold, 14 silver and 10 bronze medals. Our coach Sathish Kudroli could not accompany our team as he did not get leave from his department. We need more support from the state government. The funds meant for us sportsperson has not be disbursed since 2015. Therefore, the state government needs to release these funds as soon as possible and thereby help us in preparing for upcoming competitions.”

Jagadeesh Kavu is a trained powerlifter and has participated in many state and national level championships. Currently, he is working as a trainer at Zuese Fitness Club and Anjaneya Vyayama Shale.

Ravikumar Ballalbhag is a national level power lifter and has won many medals for the Indian Army team. After retirement from army, he is now settled in Mangaluru and representing various fitness clubs and corporate teams, both national and international. In 2001, 2004 and 2006, he won the title ‘Mr Karnataka’. In 2011 and 2016, he won the titles of ‘Mr India’ organised by Indian Body Building Federation.