Too bad: S. Prem Kumar in action against Kazakhstan’s Didar Amirali in the quarter-finals of the men’s below 67kg. — Bernama
THERE was no medal joy for S. Prem Kumar this time.
The three-time SEA Games champion’s brave bid to achieve a second Asian Games podium in a totally new category, fell to pieces when he was beaten 0-8 by Didar Amirali of Kazakhstan in the quarter-finals stage of the men’s below 67kg category at Linping Sports Centre Gymnasium yesterday.
Prem had earlier defeated North Korea’s Song Yun-hak 6-2 in the first round and Deneta Galuge of Sri Lanka 2-0 to advance to the last eight.
Prem had won the bronze in the men’s below 60kg category at the last Asiad in Indonesia five years ago and was the only medal contributor for karate then.
However, in the heavier category, he found the Kazakhstan opponent too strong.
His hopes of fighting for a bronze through the repechage also ended when Amirali lost in the semi-finals shortly after that.
“He was the silver medallist at the Asian championships in Melaka in June and also won silver at the last Asian Games in this category.
“He has eight years’ experience in this category and has won the Karate Premier League. I am a newcomer to this category,” said the 29-year-old Prem.
“I tried my best but he was taking points from me everywhere.
“I am disappointed but there is nothing I can do except to come back stronger next time.
“The coach had asked me if I was game for the challenge in the heavier category. I accepted the challenge and gained 9kg in the last three weeks.
“Just imagine walking around feeling 9kg heavier.
“My confidence level was very high. If I was fighting in my usual weight category, below 55kg, (it might have been different) ... but this is what the coach decided,” he added.
