In a remarkable stride towards fostering inclusivity and excellence in sports, the Gameskraft Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the renowned online skill-based gaming company Gameskraft, proudly announces the continuation of its partnership with the GoSports Foundation. This collaboration, now in its third year, underscores a steadfast commitment to empowering India’s para-athletes through the esteemed Para Champions Programme.
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Empowering Champions: Gameskraft Foundation’s Unwavering Support for India’s Para-Athletes
A Partnership for Progress
The Gameskraft Foundation‘s ongoing alliance with GoSports Foundation as an Associate Partner is a testament to their shared vision of nurturing para-athletes to achieve their highest potential. Over the years, this partnership has been instrumental in elevating the performance of para-athletes on the global stage. For the fiscal year 2024-2025, the programme is set to support 40 talented athletes, providing them with the resources and opportunities needed to excel.
The Para Champions Programme: A Catalyst for Success
Established in 2015, the Para Champions Programme by GoSports Foundation is dedicated to identifying and nurturing emerging para-athletes across India. The programme offers scholarships, access to elite training, sports science expertise, and cutting-edge technology, along with financial support for accommodation and travel during competitions. This comprehensive support system ensures that athletes can focus on honing their skills and achieving excellence.
In the latest selection process, 184 applicants were meticulously evaluated, including 13 promising athletes for the upcoming year. The programme’s impact was vividly demonstrated at the 2022 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, where 34 athletes represented India, showcasing the programme’s pivotal role in advancing India’s success in para sports. At the 2024 Paris Paralympics, five athletes from the programme achieved remarkable success, securing medals and making the nation proud.
Celebrating Achievements
The achievements of the Para Champions Programme athletes at the 2024 Paris Paralympics were nothing short of extraordinary. Sumit Antil and Dharambir clinched gold medals in Javelin Throw and Club Throw, respectively. Sharad Kumar and Suhas Yathiraj earned silver medals in High Jump and Badminton Singles, while Rakesh Kumar made history by winning a bronze medal in the Mixed Team Compound Open event of Para Archery, marking India’s first-ever medal in the sport.
Voices of Support
Rishi Wadhera, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Gameskraft, expressed his enthusiasm for the continued partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with GoSports Foundation, as it underscores our dedication to empowering para-athletes across India. At Gameskraft Foundation, we are committed to building an inclusive environment where talent knows no limits. Together, we will support these extraordinary athletes, enabling them to pursue their dreams and inspire future generations.”
Deepthi Bopaiah, CEO of GoSports Foundation, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the programme’s pioneering role in advancing India’s para-sports movement. “Our collaboration with Gameskraft Foundation has driven meaningful progress in the sector and the programme’s overall success,” she noted.
Celebrating Legacy and Inspiring Future Generations
Since its inception, the Para Champions Programme has produced 17 Arjuna Awardees, 5 Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awardees, 3 Padma Shri Awardees, and 1 Padma Bhushan Awardee. These athletes not only excel in their respective sports but also serve as beacons of inspiration for future generations of para-athletes.
“Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe” Campaign: Stories of Triumph
In a bid to further amplify the voices of para-athletes, Gameskraft Foundation recently launched the second phase of the “Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe” campaign in collaboration with GoSports Foundation. This campaign shines a spotlight on the journeys of 12 para-athletes from various disciplines, emphasizing the crucial roles played by coaches, physiotherapists, and family members in their success stories. To explore these inspiring narratives, visit their Instagram page.
Through unwavering support and a shared vision, Gameskraft Foundation and GoSports Foundation continue to pave the way for India’s para-athletes, empowering them to break barriers and achieve greatness on the world stage.
