Tura: Jarmin M Sangma is an aspiring sportsman who is now unable to take part in an international tournament being held in Nepal due to a lack of funding.
Sangma has been a part of numerous tournaments across the North East as well as neighbouring West Bengal. The 21 year old is Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter and has been alone in his trade with only his enthusiasm for learning difficult martial arts driving him on.
He also happens to be the only participant for the state of Meghalaya who has been invited for an MMA tournament to be held in Nepal.
However Sangma’s finances have now become a huge stumbling block in the way of his participation in the upcoming tournament, leaving him completely distraught.
“I have been going to everyone to seek assistance to represent the State and the Country in the tournament in Nepal but I don’t know how I am going manage it. Other than the District Sports Officer (DSO) and one more person, no one has come forward to provide any sort of help. I don’t know how I am going to manage continuing the sport,” said Sangma who is a resident of Boldak Ading in Tura.
Jarmin has been going from pillar to post hoping that someone would come forward to assist him in continuing his dream. He had only faced dejection.
The DC’s office in Tura could not come forward citing a lack of funds, Meghalaya Times reported.
Upon hearing of Sangma’s plight, quite a few people came forward to show their support and help in the young man carrying on with his passion.
“I heard of the problem he faced and decided to do my bit for him. We are proud of his achievements and I am sure with the right kind of support he can do us proud once again,” said MDC Stevie Marak.
“I too will be doing my bit and hope he continues growing in his sport. His achievements, without any support, are really remarkable. I wish him the best and hope he continues to do well,” said an MLA on the condition of anonymity.
The young sportsman has been working through almost insurmountable odds to keep the passion within him going. He has been training without a coach and his zeal for the sport can be understood from his achievements where has secured gold in many disciplines of MMA.
“There is not much in coaching that I have received and I train mostly on my own. Sometimes there is help in Shillong when I am able to manage getting there,” said Jarmin.
Jarmin holds a 1st Dan degree in kick boxing and is also an expert in Wushu, Taekwondo, Jeet-kun-do among other martial art disciplines.
“I have always been inspired to maintain my body and learn the art of self defense. This is the reason I began to follow the sport. I hope there is a little more support for people like us as it is really frustrating otherwise. I would like to appeal to all to help me in achieving success in my sport. Without your help and blessing I don’t think there is hope otherwise,” said a frustrated Sangma.