CHENNAI: As the junior (Group 1 and 2) events of the 32nd Sub-junior and 42nd Junior State Aquatics Championships in Neyveli came to a close on Friday, one could feel the satisfaction all around. The first three days had gone on without any glitches, save for a rain delay on Day 2, and the pool was a big success with everyone. But it was the parents who seemed most chirpy, and they had reason to be, for they were a big attraction of the event, pacing their wards during races — despite several warnings from organisers — and making sure everything was done right so that their children could perform to their best.
Noted actor Thalaivasal Vijay, father of AV Jayaveena, felt this was the most opportune time to host the event. “Last year, Neyveli was like a furnace, but this event was hosted at the perfect time as the weather was much cooler and that was a big help to the swimmers,” said Vijay, who makes sure he is with his ward in the build-up to all her races.
Another parent, Sam Rajkumar, whose daughter Sohalia participated in the sub-junior Group 4 category, was of the opinion that it ultimately comes down to the kids themselves. “We as parents can provide the best infrastructure and make sure they stay disciplined, especially when still young. But once they are old enough, it is up to them to decide the seriousness of the sport and whether to pursue it just a passion or a career,” he opined.
Parents might be enjoying themselves, but little has gone right for clubs from the districts, as Chennai continues to be the dominant force, led by rivals ORCA and Turtles. Turtles eventually bagged the overall team championship, their eighth consecutive crown, and despite Tamil Nadu State Aquatics Association secretary D Jayaraman saying Neyveli was just the start of many more upcoming areas getting the chance to host such events, the capital is where all the action is.
“Our aim is to give swimmers from lesser centres a chance to showcase their skills on the biggest stage, and in their own backyard as well. Also, giving other centres the chance to host such tournaments can only help in their growth and exposure,” Jayaraman had said on the eve of the meet.
The association is doing their best to get swimming up and running not just in Chennai but smaller areas as well, but it may take some time before such places regularly churn out championship winning individuals, and teams, the likes T Sethu Manickavel and P Mukundhan notwithstanding.
Abishikhta, Mukundhan on Top
Chennai: PM Abishiktha (ORCA) and P Mukundhan (TSPA) bagged the individual overall championship for Group 4 girls and boys respectively on the last day of the 32nd Sub-junior and 42nd Junior State Aquatic Championships held at Neyveli on Sunday.
Awards: Individual Championship: Boys: Group 1: P Mukundhan (TSPA, 35 points); Group 2: H Ahamed Azraq (Turtles, 40); Group 3: P Vikkas (SDAT Madurai) 24; Group 4: S Karthikeyan (Turtles, 42). Girls: Group 1: PM Abishiktha (ORCA, 45); Group 2: Bhavika Dugar (Jennys, 35), R Jaahnavi (TSPA, 35); Group 3: Priyanga Pugazharasu (TSN Swim Club, 28); Group 4: K Mugilavanika (SDAT Madurai, 34).
Group Championship: Boys: Group 1: Turtles, 142; Group 2: Turtles, 149; Group 3: TDSA Tirunelveli, 102; Group 4: Turtles, 95. Girls: Group 1: Turtles, 157; Group 2: Turtles, 110; Group 3: Turtles, 73; Group 4: ORCA, 62.
Overall Championship: Boys: Turtles, 451; Girls: Turtles, 356; Boys & Girls: Turtles, 807.
