Padma Shri wrestler Bajrang Punia and gold medalist shooter Elavenil Valarivan became sportspersons of the year in their respective categories. They bagged the top honours at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) India Sports Awards 2020 held virtually this year.
In 2020, both Punia and Valarivan qualified for the
Olympics but due to COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament was postponed. Punia, currently training in the USA, shared his enthusiasm at being given the sportsmen of the year award. He
said, "My aim in the future will again be to give my best and win lots of medals for the country. Such recognitions motivate me to keep doing well, and it gives me huge joy. I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate all the other winners."
Valarivan said, "I would like to thank my family first for always standing by me, my mentor Gagan Narang and my coach Neha Chauhan for always believing in me. I would also like to thank the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) for always supporting and pushing us through all our hard times, and also the Sports Authority of India for making sure that we are equipped with everything we need."
Also read: Athlete Anju Bobby George Reveals She Powered Through Her Sporting Career With A “Single Kidney”
Former cricketer Anil Kumble also received 'Best Company Promoting Sports (Private Sector)' award on behalf of his enterprise - Tenvic Sports. Last year, the title had gone to hockey player Rani Rampal and sport shooter Saurabh Chaudhary.
The industry body FICCI says that the sports awards given by them are an attempt to "acknowledge and recognize the contribution of sportspersons and various stakeholders who deliver excellent results during the year. " sports awards are an attempt by industry body, FICCI to acknowledge and recognise the contribution of sportspersons and various stakeholders who deliver excellent results throughout the year.
/shethepeople/media/agency_attachments/iUYfaBbcMozaYLoGnoov.png)
Follow Us/shethepeople/media/post_banners/KnF74acwUsP1amI2MWpx.jpg)