Sunday Tribune

Durban physiotherapist living his dream at the Olympics

TASCHICA PILLAY taschica.pillay@inl.co.za

A DURBAN physiotherapist is living his dream by treating the country’s Olympians as they take on the world sporting stage.

Avilarsh Lukhan, 38, of Kharwastan in Chatsworth, said representing Team South Africa at any event was an honour, but being at the Olympic Games had to be the ultimate experience.

“It is an opportunity to broaden my professional and life experience, while treating South Africa’s finest athletes. I am having the experience of a lifetime.

“Japan has done an incredible job as the host nation, despite the massive ‘spanner’ that the Covid-19 pandemic has thrown into the works. The friendly efficient service, the delicious food from the 24/7 dining hall, the safety protocols, and the amazing facilities at our disposal, are just a few of the many treats I have experienced in the past week.

“It is an honour and privilege to work and rub shoulders with not only the finest athletes in South Africa, but in the world too. Working alongside a very experienced and knowledgeable medical team makes every day a fun and learning experience,” he said.

Lukhan, who was assigned to rowing, golf and equestrian sporting codes, said however that, when on duty in the Village Medical Clinic, he treats South African athletes across various other sporting codes.

He said his voice was hoarse from cheering and watching swimmer Tatjana Schoenmaker win gold.

“Watching Tatjana break the record and capture SA’S first gold was the highlight of the games. It is phenomenal being part of an athlete’s journey and more so when you get to watch them win an event.

Lukhan said not even a global pandemic could dampen the festive vibe in the Olympic Village.

“There is always a buzz in the village, despite its habitants obeying socially-distanced protocols.

“The Olympic Games exemplify human spirit and achievement at the highest level in sport, and this is felt by every villager at some level. Villagers are helpful, friendly and excited to be present among each others company. It is completely normal to feel nervous energy, intense excitement and extreme disappointment, all in one day. Competitive sport has a habit of inducing the highest highs and the lowest lows,” he said.

He said credit must be given to the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) for facilitating the mammoth task.

“I am personally loving the Mr Price Sport sponsored kit as it is really comfortable and looks awesome.”

Lukhan was also part of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games medical team.

“I often volunteered as a physiotherapist at local events such as swimming, volleyball and athletics. This allowed me to network with other professionals involved in sport.

“In 2013, I was selected for my first international multi coded event, as part of the South African medical team for the World Games in Colombia. I have since been selected for a few other multicoded games such the Commonwealth Games, Youth Commonwealth Games, African Games and Zone Five Games,” said Lukhan.

METRO

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2021-08-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-08-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://sundaytribune.pressreader.com/article/281556588867988

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