Belagavi: Suryakant Devarmani, a 72-year-old senior athlete and retired Indian defense service personnel, has been selected to represent India at the prestigious World Masters’ Athletic Championship (WMAC) in Gothenburg, Sweden, from August 13 to 25. The Masters Athletic Federation of Karnataka has chosen Devarmani for the championship and officially informed him of his selection.
Despite his remarkable achievement, Devarmani faces a significant financial hurdle. Running a kirana shop in Channamma Nagar, he needs at least Rs 3 lakh to participate in the event. In response, Facebook Friends’ Circle, a group of young social workers led by Santosh Darekar, has rallied to support him and called for additional financial assistance from individuals and organizations.
Devarmani is set to compete in the 10km run, 5km run, and walking events at the championship. Throughout his illustrious career, he has accumulated an impressive collection of 400 medals and trophies since his college days. Despite his age, Devarmani has proudly represented India in international events held in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Dubai, and has competed in numerous national championships across the country.
“So far, I have funded my participation in various competitions through my pension and other earnings. But this time, I am short of funds for the Sweden event. Therefore, I have requested help from the public and organizations,” said Devarmani, who served 38 years in the defense services. “I am supposed to leave on August 10 from Belagavi, as there is a flight from Bengaluru on August 11,” he added.
Social worker Santosh Darekar emphasized the pride and honor of having a retired defense personnel from Belagavi represent India in Sweden. “We must support him. I urge all sports lovers and others to support Suryakant Devarmani financially for the Sweden event,” he said.