International archer seeking support from govt, sponsors

A young archer Ravali, participated in world Universities Archery competitions held in Mongolia and stood eighth position. She wants to improve her professional skills with the support of Government and coaches. Earlier, she had won many medals in state and national championships held in different parts of India. Talented players need support from Government, NGOs and sponsors to win medals at national and international events, Ravali laments.

The archer is now getting ready for another World Archery Championship to be held next year and is also aiming for the 2020 Olympic games.
The MBA student of Krishna University, has been seriously practicing at Cherukuri Volga Archery Academy in Vijayawada to participate in the All India Inter- University Archery Championship, which will be held at Machilipatnam in the month February next year. The event will help her represent India to take part in future International events.

Archery as a sport is very expensive, because the equipment cost more than Rs 2 lakh. Middle class students cannot afford the equipment. The International Archer Ravali has bought a Recurve bow and she is participating in various events and representing India. The government has promised support for talented players, but in the ground level it is not taking place, said the Archer Ravali. She has been spending Rs10,000 every month for her hostel, mess fee and traveling expenses. She studied in sports school in Hakimpet, Hyderabad and represented Osmania university.

Later, Krishna University authorities have asked Ravali to Join Krishna university and they would give financial assistance and support. She is alleging that there is no support from the Government to participate in more tournaments. She said that the University sponsored Rs1.90 lakh to participate in Mongolia. Ravali is not getting an education scholarship from the government. Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) and concerned college or University also are not granting financial aid regularly.

Her father is a salesman and trys to support his daughter every month for hostel, transportation fare and mess expenses. The young Archer Ravali speaking to The Hans India said that the sponsors should come forward to help her participate in tournaments and get practice. “My aim is to participate in Olympics and win the medal for India, but to reach my goals, sufficient support is necessary,” she added. It is either the state government or sponsors who should come forward for the necessary support and encouragement,” Ravali said. Many young archers from AP are doing well and they need a good coach to hone their skills to win international medals in future.