Meghalaya prodigy wins gold for India while securing 84% in SSLC!
From Our Correspondent | TNT News | June 08, 2018
Amarjyoti Rongkho, a 16 year old resident of Jonglapara in Resubelpara in North Garo Hills (NGH), has proved once again that sports and education can be balanced and one can excel in both – all without any sort of support for his sporting achievements on an international level.
This is the 3rd tournament that the 16 year old has won in the past two years – one on a national level and another, just a few months ago, representing the country. Despite the laurels, there has hardly been any kind of support for the young athlete, who one day aspires to represent the country in Olympics.
The young lad recently won a gold medal for India in the just concluded 4th International Kyorugi and 3rd International Taekwondo Poomsae Championships held on 2-4 June at the capital of Bhutan in Thimphu in his weight category (68 kgs).
Rongkho appeared for his SSLC examinations this year and came out with flying colours, getting a total of 84.66% with 4 subjects where he got over 80%. He is amongst the top performers in his school, St Thomas Higher Secondary School at Mendipathar.
"We are proud of his achievement both in sports and education. He could have done better in his studies but we will take what he has got. He has always been someone who gave his all into everything he did and we are proud parents," said father, Gopal Rabha.
Gopal, who was also a martial artist in his youth, has been the pillar of support for Amarjyoti throughout. The 16 year old is a 2 dan black belt.
"I would like to thank my teachers for their support especially Father Biju Paul for all the help he provided. Further I am grateful to Master Eugene Marak, Santosh Thakur (his coach), Oglick Marak and Osmond T Sangma for their support in my training," while dedicating his win to the efforts of all involved.
"We wish there was more support for upcoming athletes like my son in the state. We are about to hold the National Games and what better way than to promote home grown talent. Given the right training and exposure, I am sure my so will continue making the state and the country proud," said an emotional Rabha while hoping things changed for the better.
For now Rongkho will continue his studies in Mendipathar in the Arts stream and continue practicing his trade to continue what he has started.
"I strive to do better every time and hopefully will continue improving. I hope to bring back Olympic glory for the country some day," added the 16 year old Rongkho.
