Suryakant Devarmani, aged 72, a senior athlete and retired Indian defense service member, has been chosen to represent India at the esteemed World Masters’ Athletic Championship (WMAC) in Gothenburg, Sweden, scheduled from August 13 to 25. The Masters Athletic Federation of Karnataka has nominated him to represent India at the WMA Championship and has officially notified Devarmani of his selection.
However, the elderly athlete, who operates a grocery store in Channamma Nagar, faces a financial shortfall to cover the expenses of participating in the event, which requires a minimum of Rs 3 lakh. A group of young social workers led by Santosh Darekar called Facebook Friends’ Circle has stepped forward to assist the athlete and has urged other individuals and organizations to provide financial support.
Devarmani will compete in the 10km run, 5km run, and walking events at the championship. Throughout his distinguished career, he has earned an impressive collection of 400 medals and trophies dating back to his college days. However, this journey imposes a significant financial burden.
Despite his advanced age, Devarmani has brought honor to the country by participating in international competitions in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Dubai. Domestically, he has taken part in championships across various Indian cities, including Chandigarh, Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, among others.
Suryakant Devarmani, who served 38 years in the defense forces, shared, ‘Until now, I’ve funded my participation in various competitions from my pension and other earnings. However, this time, I lack sufficient funds to attend the Sweden event. Therefore, I’ve reached out to individuals and organizations for assistance.’ Devarmani plans to depart from Belgaum on August 10th, with a flight scheduled from Bengaluru on August 11th,” he added.
Social worker Santosh Darekar expressed pride in Belgaum’s retired defense personnel representing India in Sweden. “It’s crucial that we support him. I appeal to all sports enthusiasts and others to contribute financially to Suryakant Devarmani’s participation in the Sweden event,” he emphasized.
