Asian Games Gold Medallist M.R. Poovamma Flooded with Congratulations; CM’s Call Dispels Disappointment
Mangaluru: “The hardships I endured have finally borne fruit. I am overwhelmed by the flood of congratulatory messages from people after winning gold at the Asian Games. It gives me immense happiness,” said Karnataka athlete and Asian Games gold medallist M.R. Poovamma.
Speaking to the media, Poovamma said she felt disappointed and emotional when athletes from other states received calls from their respective Chief Ministers soon after winning medals, while she did not receive a call initially.
“Later, the Chief Minister himself called and spoke to me. He said he may have tried to reach me earlier as I was in Japan. That one call from Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar erased all the disappointment I had been feeling,” she said.
Poovamma said the Chief Minister recalled his own days as an athlete and told her that he understood the hardships faced by sportspersons.
“I had heard about him even before this. He has extended considerable support to sportspersons and has assured me of his full support in my future athletic career as well. This assurance has given me tremendous strength and motivation to win more medals for the country,” she said.
Poovamma also expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her home region.
“Messages of congratulations are pouring in from every corner of my Tulunadu, Mangaluru and Dakshina Kannada. I will always remain grateful for the love and encouragement showered on me. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported me,” she said.