Club de boxeo en Chintadripate, Chennai, brinda a niños desfavorecidos la oportunidad de aprender a boxear.
Title: Rising Stars: The Transformative Power of Boxing in Chennai
Summary:
In Chennai, a local boxing club is reshaping the lives of young athletes, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. Through dedication and grit, they are not only excelling in sports but also gaining essential life skills. This story focuses on the journey of Sm Durga, a talented young boxer, and her coach, U. Govindraj, highlighting the club’s Community impact and the challenges it faces.
Empowering Youth through Boxing
On the second day of her highly anticipated boxing examination, 18-year-old Sm Durga can be found training rigorously at the GS Boxing Club in Chintadripet. As she punches her way through the air with vigor, a smile lights up her face when asked about the exam; she confidently replies, "I’m not worried. I can handle it."
Sm Durga is not just any boxer; she’s a gold medalist at the 5th Junior Girls National Boxing Championship and a bronze medalist at the Khelo India 2024. The GS Boxing Club, significantly contributing to the local sporting landscape, offers a haven for young athletes, nurturing their dreams and ambitions under the guidance of its dedicated coach, U. Govindraj.
A Journey Fueled by Passion
Initially drawn to the sport by a desire for fitness, Durga found her passion for boxing while watching her younger brother take an interest in the game. "At first, it was tough. We’re a middle-class family, and I realized boxing could lead to a secure government job. Now, I love it and aspire to win more medals," she says. Currently pursuing a B.Com degree from a local university, Durga has been selected by the Sports Authority of India for international competitions, honing her skills in Haryana.
At the GS Boxing Club, about 35 young athletes train diligently, practicing two to three hours a day, twice daily. A fundamental rule of the club is that all children must attend school, reinforcing the balance between education and sports.
A Vision for Change
Founded by U. Govindraj with assistance from the National Institute of Sports, the GS Boxing Club began as an informal training space in Chintadripet’s Cocks Colony. With support from local government representatives, it later shifted to its present location within a Greater Chennai Corporation gym, transforming the lives of many youths in the community.
Govindraj, who became emotionally invested in the local youth’s development, remembers his own difficult childhood. After losing his father, a boxer, to alcoholism when he was just five years old, Govindraj pursued boxing secretly against his mother’s wishes. His breakthrough came when he won a state-level gold medal, presenting the evidence to his mother in the form of a newspaper article. This pivotal moment marked the start of his journey in boxing.
From Aspiration to Inspiration
Balancing responsibilities, Govindraj initially worked as a railway laborer while nurturing his boxing dreams. He established the GS Boxing Club to create avenues for local children, running free summer camps to introduce them to the sport. One such camp in 2018 caught the attention of young technology expert, Kharthikane KS, who was inspired by Govindraj’s commitment. He began raising funds for the club and played a vital role during the pandemic, providing essential supplies to local families in collaboration with his colleague, Abinaya JL.
Their efforts culminated in the formation of the Whakapa Foundation, which now actively supports the GS Boxing Club through various fundraising initiatives.
Overcoming Financial Hurdles
Despite its success, the club operates on a tight budget, lacking a boxing ring and sufficient financial resources to send athletes to various tournaments. For instance, 15-year-old Lenin, recently selected for the Asian Games in Tamil Nadu, was unable to participate due to delayed passport processing exacerbated by financial constraints.
"Nourishment is crucial, just as much as training. We allocate a significant budget for providing protein-rich food like milk, eggs, and nuts for the children, especially during competitions," states Govindraj. Having a boxing ring and additional nutritional support would drastically improve the athletes’ training and performance reports.
Building Character through Sport
Beyond athletic skills, the boxers at GS Boxing Club are also learning essential life lessons in discipline and the importance of steering clear of detrimental habits that often plague their community. "The transformation in these children, particularly in their discipline, is remarkable," shares Govindraj, underlining the holistic benefits of boxing beyond mere athletic success.
Conclusion
As the GS Boxing Club gears up for its next summer camp, set to begin on May 10, the future looks like a promising landscape for these aspiring boxers. While challenges remain, the relentless spirit of coaches and the unwavering determination of young athletes illuminate the path ahead. Together, they are not just boxing champions; they are becoming agents of change in their community, redefining their destinies through sport.
Through stories like those of Durga and Govindraj, the world witnesses the transformative power of boxing – a sport that not only builds champions but shapes well-rounded individuals ready to take on life’s challenges.
Passionate about Blogs since 1994
