Bhopal Paddles India's Para-Canoe Journey

Time of India

24-05-2025

Bhopal: Very few people know that Bhopal serves as a centre for para kayaking and canoeing coaching in the country, with the primary recognition attributed to only three dedicated coaches who provide training at Lower Lake.
The city has quietly been nurturing these water sports and their efforts have been making splashes.
Chief coach Mayank Thakur and his team have successfully trained 66 international medallists and continue to work tirelessly in developing athletes. These coaches address all aspects of players' development, including customising boats to meet specific requirements for para players. India has only three para water sports coaches, and Mayank leads that team along with two others who provide coaching at Lower Lake.
Supporting Athletes
In 2024, when para kayaking-canoeing athlete Rajni Jha needed funds to compete in the World Cup (Paris Olympic qualifiers) without govt backing, coach Mayank Thakur stepped forward with a personal contribution of Rs 4.5 lakh to enable her participation.
Following Jha's Olympic qualification after the championship, she encountered difficulties after testing positive in a doping examination, resulting in a three-year disciplinary action.
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed!
IC Markets
Start Now
Undo
Both Jha and Thakur maintained her innocence, stating there was no deliberate violation. Thakur continued to support her while actively contesting the three-year penalty.
Further examination showed that Jha's violation occurred due to the unintentional intake of banned protein substances. As a result, officials reduced her three-year penalty to one year, which ended on May 16 this year. "Coaches like Mayank Thakur are rare in the country, always ready to give everything to the game.
I can never repay him. Timely support has helped me return to training, focusing on the upcoming Asian Championship next month," said Jha, a clerk in Bhopal RTO.
Rajni is not the only player who received such support from para coaches like Mayank Thakur. "I think Thakur Sir has supported almost every player who is being trained at the Lower Lake centre," said Rajni.
Lighthouse At Lower Lake
India's first para Olympic qualifier, Prachi Yadav of Madhya Pradesh, was also trained at Lower Lake under him before she joined the water sports academy run by the sports department.
The training facility at Lower Lake has become a lighthouse: a beacon of hope, an oasis of sorts, for aspiring water sports para-athletes across India. The coaches work diligently to create an inclusive environment where athletes with different abilities can thrive. They have developed innovative training methods and adaptive equipment to ensure each athlete can participate fully in the sport.
The programme has garnered significant success over the years, producing numerous national and international champions.
The athletes train rigorously, often spending several hours daily on the water, perfecting their technique and building strength. The coaching team provides comprehensive support, including physical conditioning, mental preparation, and tactical training.
Building Custom Boats For Para-Athletes
The facility also serves as a hub for talent identification and development. Regular camps and workshops are conducted to identify promising athletes and introduce them to the sport.
The coaches work closely with sports authorities and medical professionals to ensure proper assessment and classification of para-athletes.
One of the unique aspects of the training centre is its focus on custom boat modifications. The coaching team collaborates with local craftsmen to modify kayaks and canoes according to individual athletes' needs.
"This attention to detail has contributed significantly to the athletes' success in competitions," said Thakur.
The training programme has also fostered a strong sense of community among the athletes. Senior players often mentor newcomers, sharing their experiences and providing encouragement. This supportive environment has been crucial in helping athletes overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Interest From Other States
The success of the para athletes at the centre has attracted attention from sports authorities and para-sports organisations across the country.
"Many other states have shown interest in replicating this model to develop their own para kayaking and canoeing programmes," said para coach Subedar Anil Rathi. The coaches also emphasise the importance of education and career development alongside sports training.
They help athletes balance their training schedules with academic pursuits and provide guidance on future career opportunities in sports.
The facility maintains strong connections with international para-sports organisations, enabling athletes to participate in various competitions worldwide. "This exposure has helped raise the standard of para kayaking and canoeing in India and has inspired many others to take up the sport," said para coach Vipin.
Despite limited resources, the coaching team continues to innovate and expand their programme.