Khelo India Para Games begins, Delhi’s Latika made a winning start
New Delhi: Capital’s experienced star Latika Thakur attracted everyone’s attention on the first day of Para Khelo India Games on Sunday.
Latika, who has won medals in the international arena before and is seen as a role model, defeated Riddhi Thakar 21-11, 21-8 in the women’s singles quarter-finals (SU5 category).
In a match where there was a lot of excitement, Latika showed how her experience will stand her in good stead. Competing in the gymnastics hall of the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Latika needed 16 minutes to win.
Haryana’s Neeraj was also in good form in the women’s singles (SL3) category, defeating Jharkhand’s Sanjana Kumari in three long games. The final result for Neeraj was 17-21, 21-10, 21-13. 21-10, 21-13.
In the same category, Amudha Saravanan of Tamil Nadu also showed a lot of courage to enter the semi-finals. She defeated Sangeeta Yadav of Uttar Pradesh 21-5, 21-5.
Conditions are cool in the capital but the enthusiasm of the participating athletes from many states is high as the Para Khelo India Games are being held for the first time.
For those who defied the odds and wanted to compete in a sport like Para badminton on the first day, it was competitive every step of the way.
Maharashtra’s Tulika Jadhao was also in good form, defeating Uttar Pradesh’s Purnima Pandey in straight games to book her place in the semi-finals.
A total of 66 matches were played at IG Stadium on the opening day.
More than 1400 participants from 32 states and union territories will participate in the prestigious event to be held across three venues in New Delhi from December 10 to 17.
