Sports gave me recognition - Deepak Bista

Look Up to:

Pele and Sachin Tendulkar. From the world of Tae-kwon-do, I look up to Bidhan Lama.

How did you get into sports?

I was interested in sports since childhood. Actually I gave more priority to sports than to studies. However, I started out as a volleyball player. It was after I completed my Intermediate that I was attracted into playing tae-kwon-do.

Did it ever cross your mind that you will be a famous sports star?

Not exactly. When I started out, I just loved the game and put in the most I could. Later on, people started knowing me as a good player and supported and respected me. But I still don’t think that I am a star. I have met so many sports stars and compared to them, I feel I have more to do in life.

How did it all happen? 

As I told you earlier, sports were my first priority. My parents however did not like my prioritizing sports to studies. Before tae-kwon-do, I played volleyball. But my interest later shifted to tae-kwon-do because I found it was easier to give your best and get results accordingly when you play an individual game rather than a team game. Initially, I faced a lot of problems – I had no moral or financial support. It was difficult managing money for tae-kwon-do. But later, my parents supported me. Friends were always very helpful and my uncle really helped me a lot.

Pen down experiences in the field both international and national and trophies that you won

In less than two months after I started formal training, I won a gold medal in a national level tae-kwon-do championship in 1996. I was only a yellow belt then but I defeated a black belt and won the gold. This indeed was a great turn in my career as a tae-kwon-do player.

My memorable moment in international events came when I won gold in the 8^th SAF Games held in Kathmandu. I was awarded and extensively felicitated by people throughout the country.

Do you feel that sports help improve your personality?

There is no doubt it does not. When you are into sports you are perceived as being disciplined and honest and you want to live up to people’s expectations. I have visited different countries as a player and everywhere, I have received recognition and respect. This prompts me to live up to the respect people have for me. 

Words for your fans. If possible please also give your mailing id so that your fans can also write to you.

I want to thank all those who have supported me for their encouragement and respect. I still feel that there is more I can do and I look forward to receiving continued help from all of you.

You can write to me or learn more about me through my website www.deepakbista.com.