It was a nostalgic evening for three of the most popular names of Karnataka athletics –– N Lingappa, DY Biradar and Kenneth Powell.
Turning 91 years younger was Dronacharya award winner coach Lingappa, and to celebrate the occasion, senior coach VR Beedu arranged a small function at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium here on Monday.
The function was attended by Biradar, a former national marathon champion and Powell, former international sprinter. “I am a very disciplined person and my passion for athletics is immense. I make sure I remain healthy always and spend at least two hours in the field everyday,” said Lingappa.
Powell, known for his style and grace during his heydays, spoke about how becoming a professional athlete was accidental. “I was a cricketer to start with. I played for the Indian Telecom Industry as a fast bowler in 1959-60. My coach Benjamin Frank, who played for West Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, advised me to take up sprinting after seeing my ability to run fast. And within six months, I was the State champion and missed the National gold by a whisker.”
“I am thankful to Beedu for this wonderful gesture. It is indeed a pleasant moment and good to be among such great contributors to the field of athletics. I urge the current crop of athletes to work harder and remain passionate,” said Biradar.
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