Former Indian hockey star Lazarus Barla was given the prestigious ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ in a presentation ceremony of the Biju Patnaik Sports Award. The event took place on National Sports Day and thus gave it an added significance.
He received the award at a function here on Thursday attended by dignitaries including Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The award carries a trophy, a Rs 4 lakh cash prize, and a citation. The Chief Minister gave away the award considering the immense contribution of Barla in the promotion of sports.
“I’m really happy and elated that I got the award. This surely is a happy day for me,” Barla said. “Getting the Lifetime Achievement Award on National Sports Day and Major Dhyanchand’s birth anniversary was a great honor. The Chief Minister motivated all senior players for their contributions to sports by inspiring others in our state. This will let more people avail themselves of being honored to represent our country internationally.”
The event also felicitated several other noted sports personalities. The Biju Patnaik Sports Award for outstanding achievement in sports was conferred upon Olympian Kishore Jena, who represented Paris. Jena, a top-class javelin thrower, received a trophy, a cash award of Rs 3 lakh, and a citation. While Jena had a respectable showing, he was ninth in Group A of the men’s javelin throw qualification round at the Paris Olympics and failed to advance to the medal round.
Bijay Kumar Lakra received the Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Excellence in Coaching. The ceremony honored Lakra with a trophy, a cash award of Rs 2 lakh, and a citation for his unwavering dedication to coaching and his significant contributions to athletes.
Similarly, Jafar Iqbal earned the Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Best Para-Sportsperson of the Year. This award recognized Iqbal’s remarkable achievements in para-sports, and the organizers presented him with a trophy, a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, and a citation.
Furthermore, fourteen-year-old Priteesmita Bhoi received the Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Best Upcoming Athlete (Junior) of the Year. The ceremony celebrated Bhoi’s budding talent and potential with a trophy, a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, and a citation.
Similarly, Rupanwita Panda earned the Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Best Sports Technical Official/Support Staff of the Year. This award recognized Panda’s contributions as a technical official with a trophy, a cash award of Rs 2 lakh, and a citation.
These awards collectively emphasized the significant contributions of the recipients toward excellence and the nurturing of talent in sports. Furthermore, they highlight the vital role of athletes, coaches, and technical officials in advancing sports and raising standards.
ANI