Budhia's Olympic dream remains intact

Bhubaneswar:

Buddhia may not be running marathons any more but his run continues, even if it's from pillar to post to ensure that his Olympic dream remains intact after his estrangement with his coach and foster father Biranchi Das.

The state government, which has decided to send Buddhia to a sports hostel, is taking its own time to work out a package for him.

"His proper diet, education and since he is involved in a lot of controversies we are also looking at the security part. We are already on the job and whatever welfare is required for the boy, our department is ready to provide everything," said Debasish Nayak, Minister, Information & Public Relations, Sports & Youth, Orissa.

Not only is Buddhia out of practice he has also been out of school for the last month and the slum committee, which is looking after him is worried.

"Where will he study? The government has not resolved this issue. Our only aim is to secure a bright future for him and if the government does not act by the September 17 we will have to think of alternatives," said Anjan Nath, Secretary, Basti Unnayan Sangrami Manch.

However, Buddhia's mother is not worried.

"If government help doesn't come, I will beg, borrow and do just anything to see my son reach
Olympics and win a medal," said Sukanti Singh, Budhia's Mother.

Buddhia says his dream is very much on.

"I will study. I will go to school and will also run. I will win the Olympic gold medal," said Budhia Singh, Child Marathon Runner.

But there are fears that Buddhia may not reach his full potential at a sports hostel unless he gets special attention and is properly nurtured.