the goan I network
PANAJI
Given the nature and expertise involved, roller-skating should have been an unlikely sport of choice for 15-year-old Harshad Gaonkar, a special child from a poor family in Mayem.
Not only did Harshad compete with roller-skaters from across the world at the recent Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi, he went on to win two gold medals in the 300m & 500m race, bringing honour to Goa and India.
Since his return from Abu Dhabi, Harshad turned into a mini-celebrity in Mayem, with media persons and locals visiting his home to meet up with the double gold medallist.
For his delighted mother, Radhika, the achievements of her son have been nothing short of remarkable, given their constant struggles to make ends meet.
“It has been very difficult to make ends meet with no one to support us. My husband, Dipak, died of a heart attack three years ago and my two sisters offered us some support. We are very poor with nothing in our house,” said Radhika, in her small house which is in bad condition.
In a desperate bid to support her son and daughter, Radhika began working as a sweeper on contract basis in the electricity dept in Bicholim and at times, could only manage with a meal for the day.
Radhika gave full credit to the school for believing in her son and supporting him.
“Given his special needs, we put Harshad at the Keshav Seva Sadhana Special School in Bicholim in 2014 and his teachers guided him well.”
“Harshad faced many challenges and it was difficult for me to provide financial assistance but school authorities helped us a lot.”
“It was Harshad’s sports teacher, Premanand Naik, who noticed his ability to skate and encouraged Harshad to pursue the sport. He has now won medals at the international level,” said Radhika.
When The Goan went to meet up with Harshad, he was playing with friends, barely hours after he had arrived from Dabolim airport.
“Harshad hardly realizes his great achievement. He reached home in the wee hours of Saturday and was soon playing with his friends. He even took part in the Romtamel,” said Radhika.
On his future plans, Harshad was quick to say that he wanted to continue his journey as best as he could.
Asked what would be his message to other children, Harshad said: “Children have to be dedicated if they are to be successful.
Rashika now hopes to save some money to repair her small house and to continue the education of her daughter, Tanisha, presently in Std 4.
Mayem MLA Praveen Zantye congratulated Harshad on his achievements.
“It is a proud moment for Vaiginium-Mayem village and Mayem constituency, as Harshad Naik has bagged gold medals at a world event,” said Zantye.
Chairman of Keshav Seva Sadhana Special School Sagar Shetye also expressed joy.
