Sharath Kamal wins sportsperson of year award

Ace table tennis player A Sharath Kamal was honoured with the Sportsperson of the Year Award at the annual awards and scholarships function organised by the Tamil Nadu Sports Journalists' Association (TNSJA) and the India Cements here Saturday. Legendary Indian tennis player Vijay Amritraj, former India leg-spinner V V Kumar and Asian Games gold medallist (200m) R Gnanasekaran were felicitated with the India Cements-TNSJA Lifetime Achievement awards.

Among the emerging talent, chess prodigy D Gukesh, who recently became the world's second youngest Grand Master, and athlete P M Tabitha were given the Young Achiever awards. Ten up-and-coming sportspersons were also given scholarships to the tune of Rs 3 lakh.

CSK coach Stephen Fleming, batting coach Mike Hussey, CSK CEO K S Viswanathan were among the guests. Vijay Amritraj, who received his award from former hockey Olympic gold medallist V Baskaran, was at his eloquent best as he reminisced about his illustrious career.

Also, he heaped praise on India Cements vice-chairman and managing director N Srinivasan for the support he has extended to sports, particularly cricket, in his career as an administrator. Fleming lauded TNSJA's effort to encourage sportspersons.

Sharath, who was recognised for his exploits in table tennis, has enjoyed a brilliant run over the past 12 months in particular, said he has been working hard with the aim of winning an Olympic medal. There was also recognition for noted chess coach RB Ramesh, who won Coach of the Year prize.

Other awardees: D Gukesh (India Cements-TNSJA Young Achiever 2018-19); P.M. Tabitha (India Cements-TNSJA Young Achiever 2018-19); Tamil Nadu Women's Football team (India Cements-TNSJA Team of the year 2018-19).

(With inputs from agencies.)