In Laudium Sun’s Veteran Sporting Enthusiasts column, we feature interviews with veteran sporting fanatics, from within the community, who promoted sporting fervour in their respective fields… (Veteran sporting enthusiasts are invited to send their details to info@laudiumsun.co.za)
· Tell us a little about yourself.
I am not a sports legend. I salute all sports legends; I just have a great passion for sports.
I was born in Polokwane and grew up in Vrededorp, Jhb. In 1979, I moved to Laudium.
After matriculating at Nirvana High, I went to Mumbai for pre-medical studies. After 2 years, I got a United Nations Scholarship to study medicine at Lucknow’s King George’s Medical College. I did my internship & registrar posting at Coronation Hospital (JHB). My clinic is in Eersterust, treating mostly senior citizens for chronic medication, at a reduced fee.
· Tell us a little about your family.
My wife Waheeda and I are happily married and have no children
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
Fortunately, I grew up near the Feitas grounds, where every weekend there was a sports atmosphere. In Winter, we played soccer and rugby. In Summer, we played cricket on a matting wicket and a gravel sandy outfield. I played soccer and cricket at school from the age of 9, and then at club and college level. I played soccer for Mohawks as centre-half. I am fortunate to have attended major sports events, nationally and internationally. The unforgettable, being a VIP guest at the “Theatre of Dreams 2013”, the last game of Sir Alex Ferguson.
· How many years in the sporting field?
40 years.
· For our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
The love of knowledge and sports. We were young and enjoyed watching elders play sports.
· What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
My most memorable sporting highlight was playing Cricket for Nirvana High School (Benoni), to retain the Inter High School Trophy.
I took three slip catches and a stubborn 25 not out. Debating was my forte at school, college and university. I represented Sagar University (MP). At the all India debate competition in New Delhi, the topic was “Man is born free but everywhere in chains”. My fondest memory is winning the best coveted prize at Bhavan’s College, Mumbai. The topic was “War, a necessary evil”.
· How did you develop your skill?
By reading books and playing tennis, cricket and soccer in the streets.
·Who is your greatest inspiration?
Maradonna.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
Start playing sport at a young age. It keeps you fit and healthy.
· What has this sport taught you off the field?
Making friends. Sport teaches you skills, discipline, honesty and gives you character.
· What message would you like to give to the readers?
Remember, you can’t win without losing.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
God Almighty, my family and childhood friends, the sporting community and the Laudium Sun for giving us this opportunity.
