Maria’s world dream gets government push

Bangla Press Desk:   Neither the roaring waves of the sea nor miles of grueling roads could stop her determination.

Yet financial hardship and the absence of sponsorship nearly shattered her dream of conquering the global stage.This is the story of Bangladesh’s indomitable triathlete, Mosammat Ferdousi Akter Maria, widely known as the country’s “Iron Lady.”

At a time when her sporting career was on the brink due to financial struggles, support finally arrived from the state.

Acting on the special directive of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the Ministry of Youth and Sports stepped forward to back the promising athlete.

On Sunday, Maria shared her journey and struggles at a special round-table discussion titled “Grace Presents Rise of Women’s Sports,” organised by Daily Sun.

Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque listened attentively to her story during the event.

Following the discussion, a special ceremony was held on Monday at the conference room of the National Sports Council, where Maria was handed a cheque worth TK5 lakh.

At the event, the State Minister also announced a long-term sponsorship to cover the expenses of her future sporting career.

Maria, a former student of Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan, hails from Pirganj in Rangpur.

She recently secured her place in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship after finishing runner-up in her age category at Ironman 70.3 events held in Malaysia and Sri Lanka.

However, triathlon is an expensive sport, and Maria repeatedly faced obstacles due to a lack of financial support.

At one point, the pressure nearly forced her to give up. “I thought that might have been my last event,” she had said in frustration.

Recognising her potential and perseverance, the Ministry of Youth and Sports extended support following the Prime Minister’s direct instruction, offering her renewed hope to continue pursuing international success.

Describing Maria as the country’s “Iron Lady,” Aminul emphasised the government’s commitment to sports development.

“The current government attaches the highest importance to sports. Like Maria, many other talented athletes across the country will gradually receive the necessary support,” he said.

He further added that the government is working to expand opportunities and facilities for athletes across all sports from cricket and football to individual disciplines guided by a broader vision for the future of Bangladeshi sports.

Expressing her gratitude after receiving the cheque, Maria thanked the Prime Minister and the State Minister for their support.

“Today I received a cheque of TK5 lakh. I am deeply grateful to our honourable Prime Minister and Aminul Haque sir. They have also assured me that a sponsor will support my journey. The company will stand beside me like a family and provide the facilities I need,” she said.

Maria added that with proper international-standard support and training facilities, she hopes to represent Bangladesh proudly on the global stage.

“If I receive the facilities needed to compete internationally, Insha’Allah I will bring a championship trophy for Bangladesh,” she said with confidence.

With renewed backing and determination, Bangladesh’s “Iron Lady” now looks ahead to her next challenge representing her country at the highest level of global triathlon competition.Source: daily Sun

BP/SP