BENGALURU, 27 MARCH

Riyanshi Patnaik from St Patrick School in City has bagged a gold medal at National Aerobic Gymnastics Championship in Jammu and Kashmir. Dominating the national development (girls’) single category, the 12-year-old replicated her success from the previous edition of the tournament held in Karnataka.

The three-day national championship, which concluded on 26 March, was organised by Gymnastics Association of J&K, J&K Sports Council and Gymnastics Federation of India. As many as 350 gymnasts from 20 states, including 60 from Karnataka, displayed their aerobic prowess. 

Eyeing for world championships, Riyanshi said, “My goal is to represent India on the world stage.”

Riyanshi started taking up gymnastics when she was three years old. “My parents are the biggest support to achieve my goals,” said Riyanshi, who has won several medals in national meets.

Deepankar Patnaik, Riyanshi’s father, told Salar News that she dedicates a minimum of two hours daily to training. “She is deeply passionate about her pursuits and diligently works towards her objectives,” Deepankar said.

Her head coach, Shivraj GN, expressed confidence in Riyanshi's abilities. "We were optimistic about her success in the championship in Jammu and Kashmir. We are planning to provide her advanced level of training to propel her to greater heights."

However, the escalating costs of training pose a challenge to Riyanshi's aspirations. “Though a few private centres have come up in the City, it is difficult for us middle-class parents to afford the sport. I appeal to the State government to financially help budding talents reach newer heights,’’ Deepnakar said. -Salar News