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Madikeri: As the Olympic Games officially began on July 26, 2024, Kodagu is buzzing with excitement and pride, celebrating its local athletes who are competing on the global stage. Representing the small district of Karnataka among India’s 117 competitors, these athletes are making their mark in Paris.
Leading the charge is Rohan Bopanna Machanda, a tennis star from Kodagu. At 44 years old, Bopanna, who is currently ranked World No.4 in doubles and is the reigning Australian Open champion, is competing in the men’s doubles event alongside Tamil Nadu’s Sriram Balaji. Having narrowly missed an Olympic medal in the 2016 Rio Games, where he finished fourth in mixed doubles with Sania Mirza, Bopanna is determined to secure a medal in this year’s Games.
In badminton, Ashwini Ponnappa Machimanda is competing in her third Olympics. The 34-year-old, who previously participated in London 2012 and Rio 2016, is partnering with 21-year-old Tanisha Castro. Despite their partnership beginning only in January 2023, Ponnappa and Castro have showcased impressive performances to earn their place in Paris.
Kodagu native Machettira Raju Poovamma, who is part of the Indian women’s 4x400m relay team will also take part in the Olympics. With two Asian Games gold medals and at 34 years old, Poovamma is the senior-most member of the relay squad. Joining her in the athletics arena is Mijo Chacko Kurian, a 29-year-old sprinter who was part of the gold-winning 4x400m relay team at the 2023 Asian Games. Chacko Kurian aims to make a significant impact at these Games.
As the Olympic Games unfold, Kodagu’s athletes are making their presence felt, bringing both excitement and pride to their district and country.
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