Growing gender balance boosts sports in Karnataka: K Govindaraj

BENGALURU: With the fourth edition of Karnataka Mini Games rolling to an end on Sunday, the state looks forward to bigger, international stages of competition. President of the Karnataka Olympic Association (KOA) and MLC K Govindaraj, in an interaction with TNIE, discussed the participation by under-14 athletes -- almost half of the approximately 5,000 were girls -- this year, the possible pitfalls, and the road ahead for sports in Karnataka. Nearly 45 per cent of the participants this year are girls, which is one of the highest female participation rates weve had in the Mini Karnataka Games so far. This growing gender balance is very encouraging for the future of sports in Karnataka, said Govindaraj, noting healthy participation from girls in traditionally male-dominated sports like wrestling and weightlifting as well. Throughout the tournament, Govindaraj was vocal of its role in shaping young athletes from Karnataka into participants fit for Commonwealth Games and Olympics. Asked about the performance this year and how far it matched expectations, Govindaraj said, Weve seen particularly strong performances in athletics, swimming, kabaddi and badminton this year, and these are sports in which Karnataka traditionally excels. Theres also exciting young talent emerging in tennis and gymnastics. While Olympics is a different level altogether, the promise shown here is significant. Govindaraj said some areas need fine-tuning before one can realistically look for excellence on the international stage. This time, weve noticed that equestrian, fencing and rowing are disciplines that need more support, largely because these sports demand specialised facilities and equipment. KOA is in active discussions with the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES) to strengthen infrastructure and coaching ecosystems, he admitted. The tournament was an astute reflection of Karnatakas socio-economic diversity. Participants from underprivileged backgrounds or under-represented districts thronged the venue, and it is pertinent to ask if they will receive the same institutional support often reserved for urban participants. Govindaraj assured, Outstanding athletes identified during the Mini Games will be recommended for specialised training under KOAs talent development programme, which works in coordination with the Sports Authority of India and state sports academies. For athletes from rural areas, we are especially focused on bridging the access gap through regional training centres, scholarship schemes and mentorship programmes that connect them with top coaches. Talent should never be limited by geography.