The Hindu : New Delhi News : Army officer does the country proud

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Sunday, Jul 18, 2010
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Army officer does the country proud

Smriti Kak Ramachandran

- Photo: S. Subramanium

WINNER TAKES ALL: Major Surendra Poonia at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi over the weekend with the medals he won at the World Health Games in Croatia.

NEW DELHI: While he trained to take part in the World Medical and Health Games, Major Surendra Poonia's only concern was whether he can match up to the competitors. At a lean 62 kg, Major Poonia of the President's Body Guard was not even joking about winning.

But for the doctor who has also been an athlete during his college days, the 31 {+s} {+t} World Medical and Health Games at Croatia has been a dream run. The Major is back home now with three glittering medals: a gold for power lifting, a silver for discus throw and a bronze for javelin throw. “It is for the first time that an Indian participated in the Games. A friend of mine living in London had suggested the event to me. Since I have been an athlete since college, I sent them my details and was invited,” he said.

While his regiment backed him with the requisite support, inspiration to do well came from the President herself. “When the President learnt about my participation, she was very encouraging. I had the opportunity of training at the Rashtrapati Bhavan gym, which is extremely well equipped. There were times when my morale used be low, just thinking about what I am up against, but the encouragement that I received from everyone including the President kept me going,” says Major Poonia.

While he himself was low on confidence, support from officials and friends was heart-warming. “Countries like Germany, Argentina and Brazil are right on top. There were 2,700 medical professionals from 47 counties participating and most of them were much bigger in size. I felt I would not measure up to them in terms of physique and strength,” says Major Poonia who participated in the under-35 category.

But with hard work and good luck on his side, the Major, who has graduated from the Armed Forces Medical College, found himself winning medals in three categories. “It was a great feeling, I represented my country and was the only one there while there were proper teams along with the cheering squads from other countries. Back in Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President was happy too. She congratulated me and I felt people had more faith in me than I had in myself.”

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