Srivisana Gowda, a Kambala jockey (traditional buffalo race) from Moodabidri in Karnataka India have just set a new record as the fastest runner in the history of the traditional sport – where he might have beaten Usain Bolt’s 100-metre Olympic time of 9.58 seconds in 2009.
The only ‘catch’ is, he sprinted 100 metres through the rice field while holding two buffaloes for a time of 9.55 seconds.
Srivisana Gowda, who is a construction worker, took just 13.62 seconds to cover the distance of 142.4 metres.
It is important to note that Srinivasa’s efforts did not go unnoticed by the Indian Sports Ministry.
According to India’s Minister of State (Independent Charge) Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju’s tweet, “I’ll call Karnataka’s Srinivasa Gowda for trials by top SAI Coaches.”
“There’s a lack of knowledge in masses about the standards of Olympics especially in athletics where ultimate human strength and endurance are surpassed.”
Sparking much discussion from the nation, in a recent tweet Kiren notes that Srinivasa is on his way to
In an interview with local media, Srinivasa said, “People are comparing me to Usain Bolt. He is a world champion, I am only running in a slushy paddy field.”
Will we be seeing the makings of the next fastest man on earth coming from India? Only time will tell for now.
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