JOIN USGirisha Hosanagara Nagarajegowda was accorded a warm welcome at the international airport here on his arrival from the London Paralympic Games, where he won a silver in the men’s high jump F42 event.
“I was not expecting this warm welcome as people are not very much aware of the status of Paralympics. I am very happy now and I am thankful to media for the awareness,” Girisha said on his arrival.
The 24-year-old from Karnataka said that his coach, Satyanarayana helped him realise his dream.
“I am participating in all the coaching camps since 2011 with another high jumper Sharath. I left the sports scene in 2009 but Satyanarayana brought me back and convinced me that I can bring the laurels to the country.
“He recognised my talent. He extended all his support and on his advise, I left the contract labour job and now by his efforts, I brought the silver medal for India. I am thankful to Paralympic Committee of India, Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports for their extended support,” he said.
Girisha, who has an impairment in his left leg, sailed over a height of 1.74M in the final of the event to finish second behind Iliesa Delana of Fiji.