Lifting the odds

On December 26, J. Shiva Kumar from Secunderabad is going to have his long-awaited moment of glory. The powerlifter has just one aim on his mind — to make his country proud. He has been selected to represent India in the annual International Powerlifting Championship to be held at Jamshedpur.

Shiva has been in the field  for 15 years now and has won many Junior and Senior National level championships. Based on his performances, he was selected to represent the country.

“My rigorous training at the Gymkhana Grounds starts at 6 am and my coach Shravan Kumar has been helping me. There are more than 30 countries participating, and frankly, it makes me a little nervous. But I think participation is more important. I’m glad I made it to this level. I will give it my best and I hope that I’ll be able to make my country proud,” says the 38-year-old senior powerlifter.

Unlike most sportspersons, Shiva is not following a particular diet. “I’m just eating regular home-cooked food. I’m not aware of any diet I’m supposed to follow,” he says.

Shiva Kumar’s family and friends are proud of him. “They are very encouraging, especially my wife,” says Kumar, who is a part-time event organiser and also runs other small businesses to make a living.

If Shiva wins the International Championship, he will be qualified to represent India at the World Championships next year.

“After a long career, nothing would be more satisfying than winning the World Championships,” he signs off.