Swimmers' awards being stalled

It has been two years since the conclusion of the 12th South Asian Games in India but the Bangladesh Swimming Federation (BSF) is yet to hand over the promised cash awards to the medal winners of that competition, resulting in mounting frustration among the swimmers.

Mahfuza Khatun Shila, one of the tournament's three gold medal winners, grabbed two gold medals and established herself as the first ever female swimmer to win gold at the regional extravaganza. In addition, Mahfizur Rahman Sagar, Jewel Ahmed, Shahjahan Ali Rony, Shariful Islam, Romana Akter, Sonia Akter and the relay teams managed a total of 15 bronze medals. 

“Two years have gone by but we still haven't received the cash awards the federation promised us. The financial incentive was announced to inspire the athletes. We reminded the federation about their promise several times but we still have not received the cash award,” Shila told reporters yesterday.

The BSF had announced that gold, silver and bronze medal winners would receive Tk 3 lakh, Tk 2 lakh and Tk 1 lakh respectively.

“I have no interest to talk about the cash award. What I can say though is that I am still waiting for what the federation promised us,” said Jewel.

On the other hand Mahfizur, who won seven bronze medals which include three in relay events, believes that the financial aspect of the game should not be so heavily considered by athletes.

“The cash award is not a big deal, rather it is honourable for an athlete to represent the nation without thinking of the monetary benefits. If an athlete doesn't understand that honour, then that person will not be inspirational in the future,” she said.

However, BSF general secretary BM Saif informed that the federation has not found any documents related to that promise of cash awards but that they are trying to hand over the money regardless.

“After coming into the office, I didn't find any documents on the cash award promise but I have already notified the BSF president about it at a meeting. Besides, the federation has been in a cash crunch due to the talent hunt programme that took place year round. However, I will bring up this matter again at the next executive committee meeting,” explained Saif, who was BSF's joint secretary during the 12th SA Games.