Proposal for foreign karate coach in MP

Bhopal, Feb 20 (UNI) Madhya Pradesh Karate Association President Mahendra Singh Chouhan today said that a proposal has been sent to the government for appointing a foreign coach for the state's karatekas who recently bagged the maximum 12 medals -- including 8 golds and three silvers -- at the 33rd National Games, in Guwahati.

''Such a coach will give the karatekas a chance to prove their mettle at the international level. The Association is endeavouring to ensure that a foreign coach is appointed before the next National Games. There is a need for district-level coaches, like in other games. Resources such as mats are in short supply. Mats have to be often taken on rent from the Sports Authority of India,'' he told reporters.

Mr Chouhan expressed happiness over the government doubling prize money for medalists. The amounts are Rs 2 lakh, Rs 1.60 lakh and Rs 1.20 lakh for gold, silver and bronze medalists.

UNI