Apollo Tyres’ Go The Distance (GTD) Heroes initiative is a CSR initiative that recognizes and celebrates individuals and organizations that are making a significant contribution to sports development in India. The initiative was launched in 2017 and has since recognized over 60 heroes from across the country.
The GTD Heroes are selected by a panel of experts based on their commitment to sports development, their impact on the community, and their role in inspiring the next generation of sports stars. The heroes are awarded a cash prize and their stories are featured on Apollo Tyres’ website and social media channels.
Here are some of the Apollo Tyres GTD Heroes who are making a difference in Indian sport:
Palden Bhutia
Palden Bhutia is a former Indian football captain who is now working to promote football among underprivileged children in Sikkim. He founded the Palden Bhutia Football Academy in 2015, which provides free training and coaching to children from all walks of life. The academy has produced several talented players who have gone on to play for professional clubs and the Indian national team.
Anas Edathodika
Anas Edathodika is a para-cyclist who has won several medals at the national and international levels. He is also the co-founder of the Challenging Heights Foundation, a non-profit organization that works to empower people with disabilities through sports. The foundation provides free training and equipment to para-athletes and also organizes sporting events and competitions.
Jeje Lalpekhlua
Jeje Lalpekhlua is one of the most popular footballers in India. He has played for several top clubs in the Indian Super League and has also captained the Indian national team. Lalpekhlua is a role model for many young footballers and he is also actively involved in promoting football at the grassroots level. He has recently launched the Jeje Lalpekhlua Foundation, which aims to support the development of football in India.
Jayesh Dilip Rane
Jayesh Dilip Rane is a swimming coach who has trained several national and international champions. He is also the founder of the Rane Swimming Academy, which is one of the most successful swimming academies in India. Rane is known for his innovative coaching methods and his commitment to developing the next generation of Indian swimmers.
Derrick Pereira
Derrick Pereira is a former Indian hockey player who is now working to promote hockey among underprivileged children in Goa. He founded the Derrick Pereira Hockey Academy in 2017, which provides free training and coaching to children from all walks of life. The academy has produced several talented players who have gone on to play for professional clubs and the Indian national team.
PASS Collective
PASS Collective is a non-profit organization that works to promote skateboarding among underprivileged children in India. The organization provides free training and equipment to children from all walks of life and also builds skateparks in underserved communities. PASS Collective has helped to introduce skateboarding to thousands of children and has also helped to develop the skateboarding scene in India.
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS)
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) is a non-profit educational institution that provides free education and training to underprivileged children from tribal communities. KISS also has a strong sports program and has produced several national and international champions in a variety of sports. KISS is a role model for other educational institutions and is showing the way to promote sports development among underprivileged children.
Impact of the Apollo Tyres GTD Heroes Initiative
The Apollo Tyres GTD Heroes initiative has had a significant impact on sports development in India. The initiative has recognized and celebrated the work of individuals and organizations that are making a real difference in the lives of underprivileged children and athletes. The initiative has also helped to promote sports culture in India and to inspire the next generation of sports stars.
Here are some of the specific ways in which the Apollo Tyres GTD Heroes initiative has made a difference:
- The initiative has helped to provide access to sports for underprivileged children and athletes.
- The initiative has helped to develop the skills and talents of athletes from all walks of life.
- The initiative has helped to promote sports culture in India and to inspire the next generation of sports stars.
- The initiative has helped to create a platform for individuals and organizations to share their stories and to learn from each other.
Conclusion
The Apollo Tyres GTD Heroes initiative is a commendable CSR initiative that is making a real difference in Indian sport. The initiative is recognizing and celebrating the work of individuals and organizations that are making a significant contribution to sports development in the country. The initiative is also helping to promote sports culture in India and to inspire the next generation of sports stars.
