Judoka Priya working hard to win medal for India

Anil Datt

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Ludhiana, September 18

Priya has been practicing hard to win a medal for the nation in martial arts-judo. Her aim is to excel at the international level competitions and set an example for others to follow.

Priya (20), a student of BA-II at Ramgarhia Girls College, Miller Ganj, started taking part in judo at the coaching centre run by the Punjab Sports Department here at the multipurpose indoor hall of Guru Nanak Stadium, under the guidance of coach Parveen Thakur.

She won her maiden medal in 2012 in the Ludhiana District Schools Judo Tournament while studying in Class VIII at Government High School, Madhopuri branch.

Priya clinched a silver medal in the championship in the below 44-kg weight category. Next year, Priya participated in the Junior National Judo Championship held at Shillong wherein she competed in the below 52-kg weight group and missed the podium finishing by a whisker.

In 2017, Priya made her presence felt at the national level when she secured a bronze medal in the below 70-kg weight section in the Junior National Judo Championship at Saifai (Etawah) in Uttar Pradesh.

Priya hogged the limelight last year when she annexed a gold medal in the All-India Inter-Universities Judo Championship at Panjab University, Chandigarh.

She bagged top honours in the below 70-kg weight category and brought fame to her alma mater.

In July this year, Priya represented the country in the World Universities Games held in Italy. Though she could not win a medal there, she had the exposure of competing against some of the best judokas.

“I have been following a strict schedule, suggested by my coach. I am confidant to don the national colours to fetch glory for my parents as well as the country,” said Priya.

Priya is a quick learner and has all ingredients to excel at the international scene, her mentor Parveen Thakur said.

Ravinder Singh, District Sports Officer, Ludhiana, appreciated Priya for representing the country in the World Universities Games and wished her success in future competitions.

He also lauded Parveen Thakur for his guidance to prepare the sportsperson.