Correct Answer : Option (D) - Rashmi Kumari

Rashmi Kumari has etched her name deeper into the annals of Indian carrom history by claiming her 12th National Carrom Championship title. The three-time World Champion overcame a tough challenge from K Nagajothi in the women’s final, emerging victorious with a scoreline of 25-8, 14-20, 25-20.

* Rashmi’s remarkable achievement is a testament to her unwavering dedication and the relentless pursuit of excellence that has defined her illustrious career. As the Chief Manager at the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Rashmi has seamlessly balanced her professional responsibilities with her passion for the sport, cementing her status as one of the most decorated carrom players in the country.

A Clash of Titans: The Women’s Final

* The highly anticipated women’s final witnessed a thrilling battle between two of the sport’s most formidable talents. Rashmi Kumari, the seasoned veteran, faced off against the up-and-coming K Nagajothi, setting the stage for a captivating showdown.

* In the opening game, Rashmi showcased her dominance, cruising to a decisive 25-8 victory. However, Nagajothi refused to be deterred, rallying back in the second game to level the proceedings with a 20-14 triumph. Unfazed, Rashmi drew upon her extensive experience and unparalleled composure to regain control in the decisive third game, emerging victorious with a 25-20 score.

The Men’s Final: Srinivas Dominates with Fourth National Title :

* While Rashmi Kumari’s historic victory captivated the headlines, the men’s final also witnessed a remarkable display of carrom prowess. K Srinivas, the reigning champion, faced off against S Aditya in a one-sided encounter that showcased the former’s mastery of the game. Srinivas, who was in scintillating form throughout the tournament, steamrolled his opponent with a commanding 25-0 victory in the opening game and a 19-6 triumph in the second game to clinch his fourth national men’s singles title.

A Tournament of Excellence and Sportsmanship

* The 51st National Carrom Championship, sponsored by the Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) and SYNCO carrom company, attracted a strong field of 237 men and 174 women participants from across the country. The tournament showcased the depth and diversity of talent in the sport, with the semifinals and quarterfinals providing a glimpse into the future of Indian carrom.

* Rashmi Kumari’s 12th national title is a testament to her unwavering dedication and the respect she has earned within the carrom community. As a role model and inspiration to aspiring players, her success serves to motivate the next generation of carrom champions to strive for greatness and uphold the rich traditions of the sport.

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Kyrgyzstan

The Asian Wrestling Championship 2024 is being held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. In this championship, India's Udit won the silver medal in men's freestyle 57 kg. While Abhimanyu gave India the second medal in 70 kg.

Correct Answer : Option (C) - $50,000

World Athletics has broken 128 years of Olympic tradition – and set itself on a potential collision course with the International Olympic Committee – by announcing that it will become the first international sports to give athletes money for winning a gold medal at the Games.

Starting in Paris this summer, track and field athletes who win gold in each of the 48 events will also walk away with $50,000 (£39,360). World Athletics have also promised to extend the cash prizes to Olympic silver and bronze medal winners at the LA 2028 Games.

The decision is particularly striking given that the IOC has never awarded money for participating or winning a medal at the Olympics – arguing that to compete at a Games is reward enough.

In a statement explaining his decision, World Athletics president Seb Coe said it was right that his federation passed on $2.4m of the money it gets from the IOC every four years to reward athletes.

“The introduction of prize money for Olympic gold medallists is a pivotal moment for World Athletics and the sport of athletics as a whole, underscoring our commitment to empowering the athletes and recognising the critical role they play in the success of any Olympic Games,” he said.

“While it is impossible to put a marketable value on winning an Olympic medal, or on the commitment and focus it takes to even represent your country at an Olympic Games, I think it is important we start somewhere and make sure some of the revenues generated by our athletes at the Olympic Games are directly returned to those who make the Games the global spectacle that it is.”.

Source : The Guardian