Badminton ace claims KZN sports title

Reneshan was nominated for the award alongside cricketer, Ashim Amla and swimmer, Chad le Clos. Thanks to the support of his friends, family and fans, he was a runner-up in the category, However, a technical glitch on the night of the awards (Friday, 4 October) named the 18-year-old the winner.

Head of Department, Rohini Naidoo, confirmed a decision had been made to give the award to the youngster, in honour of the great success he has already made in his short career and in the spirit of sportsmanship, which was the intent of the awards ceremony.

Reneshan said he was humbled just to be nominated alongside sporting heroes, Le Clos and Amla and when he heard he had received the award, he was shocked and overjoyed.

A media storm followed the awards ceremony, which has overshadowed the intent of the ceremony and the successes of the people involved, said Rohini. “Yes, there was a mishap, but the aim of the awards was to promote sportsmanship and provide incentive for up-and-coming sportsmen. The matter has been resolved and I hope people will be able to see the purpose of the awards, which was to develop sports in our province.”

Reneshan’s mother, Nisha and father, Van said they were ecstatic about the award and very proud of their son. “We are not only proud of this achievement, but of everything he has accomplished in his life, both on and off the court,” said Nisha.

The quiet, unassuming badminton player, who has successfully represented his country numerous times, said he was thankful to all the people who voted for him. “Their support means a great deal to me and I am grateful. This award should open a lot of doors for me.”

Currently writing his matric exams, the teen, who has a passion for numbers, has been provisionally accepted to study actuarial science and hopes to begin the Olympics qualifying process next year.

– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za