Kodagu’s Aida Thimmaiah, a resident of Bengaluru, finished third in Girls 11 category at US Kids Golf World Championship – 2025 organised by US Kids Golf Foundation, which concluded at Pinehurst Village, North Carolina, on Aug. 2.
Competing in the Girls Age 11 category, Aida’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary.
After a challenging start on Day 1 with a score of +3, she stood in 27th position. Undeterred by the pressure, Aida staged a remarkable comeback on Day 2, shooting -4 and climbing an incredible 21 places to finish the day in 6th place.
On the final day, with grit and determination, Aida delivered her best round yet — a flawless -6, the lowest score of the day, propelling her into 3rd place overall among the world’s best young golfers.
Speaking to Star of Mysore, Aida Thimmaiah, said, “It is an amazing and proud moment to represent India on a world stage. I feel very happy to have finished third in the world championship. I am very thankful to my coach Rahul Ganapathy at Golf Academy in Karnataka Golf Association (KGA), Bengaluru, my parents for their constant support and also my sponsors.”
The US Kids World Championship is one of the most competitive platforms for junior golfers, bringing together the most talented young athletes from around the world.
Aida Thimmaiah is the daughter of Ballachanda Den Thimmaiah and Sanjana Thimmaiah couple. Den is a native of Virajpet in Kodagu, now settled in Bengaluru. While Den Thimmaiah is into land development, his wife is a wedding planner.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / August 04th, 2025
Team Ibbani from Heggadihalli, Bengaluru Rural, defeated Team Appu Boys from Marasanahalli panchayat, Chikkaballapur Rural, to emerge as regional champions.
Team Black Panthers from Maragodu, Kodagu, aced the women’s throwball competition at Isha Gramotsavam. Credit: Special arrangement
Bengaluru:
Team Ibbani won the men’s volleyball and Team Black Panthers the women’s throwball events at the Karnataka regional finals of rural sports festival Isha Gramotsavam on Sunday.
Team Ibbani from Heggadihalli, Bengaluru Rural, defeated Team Appu Boys from Marasanahalli panchayat, Chikkaballapur Rural, to emerge as regional champions.
In women’s throwball, Team Black Panthers from Maragodu, Kodagu, overcame Team Shasthara Padumale (Kudla Strikers), from Badagannuru, Dakshina Kannada, to clinch the regional title.
Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa and South Indian actress Srinidhi Shetty attended the event held at Sadhguru Sannidhi in Chikkaballapur.
The event featured men’s volleyball and women’s throwball competitions.
Eighteen men’s volleyball teams from nine districts and 16 women’s throwball teams from eight districts competed for their place in the grand finale to be held at Adiyogi, Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore.
Launched by Sadhguru in 2004, Isha Gramotsavam was envisioned to rekindle the spirit of rural India. The festival helps rural communities break free from addictions, rise above caste, creed and religious divisions, and actively supports women’s participation in community life.
Unlike professional tournaments, Gramotsavam provides rural citizens with a platform to play, compete, and celebrate the unifying power of sports and culture, according to a press release.
source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> India> Karnataka / by DHNS / September 09th, 2025
Tasmai Cariappa, city’s motorsport enthusiast, taking part in the recently held BRIC Superbikes Championship held at Chang International Circuit in Thailand, won the Round 2 of the Championship in the 400 CC category.
A resident of Kuvempunagar in Mysuru, Tasmai is the son of Dr. Monnanda Nalini Somaiah, Professor, Department of Studies in Botany, Manasagangothri, University of Mysore.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / August 28th, 2025
Yuki Bhambri has teamed up with New Zealand’s Michael Venus, while Rohan Bopanna has joined forces with Monaco’s Romain Arneodo.
Rohan Bopanna. File | Photo Credit: AP
Yuki Bhambri, India’s number one doubles player, and veteran Rohan Bopanna will lead the country’s challenge at the US Open, season’s last Grand Slam.
Bhambri has teamed up with New Zealand’s Michael Venus, while Bopanna, India’s number two doubles player, has joined forces with Monaco’s Romain Arneodo.
Bhambri and Venus, seeded 14th, are facing solid singles players in Marcos Giron and Learner Tien, who have joined as a team.
File picture of Yuki Bhambri | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Bopanna and Arneodo open their campaign against the American team of Robert Cash and JJ Tracy.
Arjun Kadhe has partnered with Ecuador’s Diego Hidalgo and they are up against second seeded team of Marcelo Arevalo from El Salvador and Mate Pavic from Croatia.
There will be an Indian team of N Sriram Balaj and Rithvik Bollipalli, who face the American-Dutch combine of Vasil Kirkov and Bart Stevens.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Sports> Tennis / by PTI / August 28th, 2025
Narayan Jagadeesan, the Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batter, has opened up about the impact of his former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammate Robin Uthappa on his career. Jagadeesan and Uthappa shared the CSK dressing room between 2020 and 2022, playing under MS Dhoni alongside Ravindra Jadeja.
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Jagadeesan revealed how Uthappa influenced his approach as both a cricketer and an individual.
“Robin has instilled more discipline in me regarding how to approach each session,”
Jagadeesan said. “He has taught me many things, making me calm and secure, not just as a cricketer but as an individual, and to stay present.”
On the technical side, Jagadeesan credited his Tamil Nadu coaches for shaping his batting. “When it comes to batting, Guru sir [AG Guruswamy] and Narasimha [both coaches in Tamil Nadu] have helped me,” he added.
Jagadeesan also lived his father’s dream earlier this year when he was named a reserve player in India’s squad for the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval. Though he did not make the playing XI, being part of India’s thrilling six-run victory was a moment of pride for him.
“The India jersey is now going into the frame, and I hope to add many more,” he said. “Being part of such an intense and thrilling match made it even more special. Winning the game from an unexpected situation was truly remarkable and gave me goosebumps.”
Most recently, Jagadeesan represented Chepauk Super Gillies in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2025. It turned out to be a mixed campaign for him. He scored 180 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 179.07, including two half-centuries.
source: http://www.revsportz.in / Revsportz / Home> Breaking News > Cricket / by Staff Reporter / August 28th, 2025
Maleyanda Arun Poovaiah, a former International Badminton player, has won Men’s Singles title, Mixed Doubles Trophy and emerged Runners-up in Men’s Doubles Category at the PAN India Golden Master’s Badminton Championships held at Vardhan’s Vision Sports Club in R.R. Nagar Bengaluru recently.
Along with trophies, cash prize was also awarded.
A native of Nelji, Napoklu in Kodagu, Arun is presently based in Bengaluru and is involved in coaching budding Badminton players.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / August 25th, 2025
While Karnataka is all geared up to welcome whitewater rafting enthusiasts in the monsoon, it is important that adventure activities are conducted in a way that minimises risks and yet provides the benefits of participation, say experts.
With the monsoon in full swing, Karnataka is all geared up to welcome tourists and adventure enthusiasts to experience the thrills of whitewater rafting. As you raft through gushing waters surrounded by dense jungles, you are transported into a world of roaring rapids with sprays of pristine white water and treated to glimpses of wildlife on some stretches of the river.
Adrenaline junkies can head to the stretch adjacent to the Dubare Elephant Camp in Kodagu on the River Cauvery and some stretches of the Kali river at Dandeli. The highlight of the season is the 1.5-hour whitewater rafting adventure on the roaring Barapole river, which originates in the Brahmagiri hills and flows towards the Arabian Sea. Rafting enthusiasts can navigate a 4.5 km stretch of the river featuring four iconic rapids with thrilling sections reaching up to Class 4 difficulty level for a duration of four months.
Another rafting destination is Bheemeshwari set on the banks of the Cauvery in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. Plans are on the anvil to resume rafting in Seethanadi, a swift Western Ghats river known for its challenging rapids and stunning scenery during the monsoon. The run on this powerful river passes through thick evergreen forests that form part of the Western Ghats in the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kudremukh National Park. Rafting on this brilliant 22 km stretch takes four hours to complete.
Streamlining rafting operations
The recently constituted River Rafting Management and Monitoring Committee of Kodagu district has stressed the need for enforcing stringent safety protocols to prevent mishaps during this high-risk adventure activity. The committee has urged all rafting operators in Kodagu district to compulsorily obtain and renew the fitness certificates for their rafts before launching any water-based adventure activity.
The mandatory certification, which must be renewed annually, is issued by the General Thimayya National Academy of Adventure (GETHNAA), a government of Karnataka enterprise for the promotion of adventure sports in the state.
“It is important that adventure activities are conducted in a way that minimises risks and yet provides the benefits of participation. Karnataka Tourism has laid down some guidelines that include obtaining necessary licenses and certifications from relevant authorities and ensuring compliance with safety standards,” says Major General (retired) MN Devaya, advisor to GETHNAA.
Listing the items that are essential for rafting, he adds, “Firmly secured life jackets, crash helmets, rescue floats with unreeling nylon lines, first-aid emergency kit, detailed instructions to the rafters, and an attendant kayak or raft for emergency assistance are mandatory for rafting activity. GETHNAA also has a training centre at Barapole.”
Explaining the measures taken by the committee, Venkat Raja, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (DC), Kodagu district, says, “The committee has taken up the responsibility of upgrading basic infrastructure at rafting sites to improve the tourist experience and enhance safety. Other measures included installation of shelters at the ticket counters, hand railing on the steps, changing rooms for guides, benches, provision of drinking water, toilets, CCTV surveillance, and directional signboards to rafting sites at strategic junctions.”
There are 47 raft operators functioning in the 7 km stretch in Dubare and four operators in the 4.5 km stretch in Barapole. “All the rafts are numbered for authenticity and easy identification. To prevent unhealthy competition, the pricing is flexible and monitored by the committee. Another encouraging factor is the involvement of the local populace, especially tribal residents, in the rafting operations,” adds the DC.
In Dandeli, Jungle Lodges & Resorts (JLR) is the only reliable organisation to conduct white water rafting. “The rafting operations that are currently suspended will resume after the monsoon in September/October. We have outsourced our rafting operations in the Kali river in Dandeli to Manasa Adventures, a professionally experienced adventure company. Strict safety guidelines are adhered to with professional river guides. We have perfected our standing as a whitewater rafting destination with highly qualified river guides and proper equipment,” says Prashanth Shankhinamath, IFS, Managing Director, JLR.
Need for stringent monitoring
Noting that there are many unauthorised rafting operators in Dandeli, Vaibhav Kamat of Jungle County, Dandeli, says, “This has led to protocol breach, which raises concerns over safety. As there is a mad rush during weekends, some of the operators overload the rafts, flouting all safety norms. Crowd control is also woefully lacking and overcrowding can lead to accidents. Some operators send visitors into rafts without safety gear such as life-jackets as they do not have the professional knowledge to operate the services. So there is a dire need for the state administration to monitor these operations.”
Urging a crackdown on illegal operators, he adds, “The safety standards and procedures followed by rafting organisations, including the availability of qualified guides and proper equipment, should be monitored. Action should be initiated against operators for violations. The permission process for raft owners should also be made more stringent.”
It is high time that Karnataka Tourism conducted a safety audit of all the river rafting destinations in Karnataka. This will help identify potential hazards and deficiencies in safety protocols. A social audit should also be conducted to examine the impact of rafting activities on local communities and the environment. This includes assessing benefits like opportunities for locals as well as potential negative impact such as environmental damage, social disruption, and cultural insensitivity. The impact of rafting on local businesses should be assessed.
An environmental impact study of rafting activities is imperative too to assess the impact on river banks, the river ecosystem, vegetation, and wildlife habitats. The effectiveness of waste management practices at rafting sites and the impact on the surrounding areas should be evaluated. The carrying capacity of rafting destinations and whether tourism is being managed sustainably should be determined.
Susheela Nair is an independent food, travel and lifestyle writer and photographer contributing articles, content and images to several national publications besides organising seminars and photo exhibitions. Her writings span a wide spectrum which also includes travel portals and guide books, brochures and coffee table books.
source: http://www.thenewsminute.com / The News Minute / Home> Karnataka / by Susheela Nair / edited by Vidya Sigamany / July 31st, 2025
Kodagu, often hailed as the ‘Land of Spices’ and the ‘Scotland of India’, is not only known for its lush coffee estates and spice plantations but also for producing some of the country’s finest athletes and brave soldiers. Adding to this legacy is 22-year-old Monnanda Tasmai Cariappa, an emerging talent in the world of motorcycle racing.
Tasmai recently made a stunning international debut by clinching second place in the SP400 (400cc) category at the BRIC Superbike Championship-2025 held in Thailand, a performance that has turned heads in the racing circuit.
Now, with his eyes set firmly on representing India at the highest level of motorsport, Tasmai is revving up for Indian Superbikes League (ISBL) selections scheduled to take place in Bengaluru next week. His passion runs so deep that he made the bold decision to put academics on hold — despite excelling in his II PUC — to pursue a professional career in motorsport.
A resident of Kuvempunagar in Mysuru, Tasmai is the son of Dr. Monnanda Nalini Somaiah, Professor, Department of Studies in Botany, Manasagangothri, University of Mysore.
Star of Mysore caught up with the promising racer as he gears up for the ISBL trials. Excerpts…
Star of Mysore (SOM): Being such a high-risk sport, how did you get into motorcycle racing?
Tasmai Cariappa: I’ve been passionate about racing from a young age. I grew up watching MotoGP and other races on television, which sparked my interest. After I turned 18, I got my first bike — a KTM Duke 390 — and started riding on the curvy roads of Chamundi Hill, which I loved.
During those rides, I met a few fellow enthusiasts who were already participating in races organised by KTM. That motivated me to take things more seriously. I enrolled in track training academies in 2019 and again in 2022, held in Coimbatore and Chennai. After completing the training, I began competing in Indian National Racing events in the 165cc category.
From the album – Tasmai Cariappa with his racing icon Marc Marquez of Spain.
SOM: Who has been your biggest inspiration among professional racers?
Tasmai Cariappa: Spanish racer Marc Márquez has been a huge inspiration for me. It’s not just his aggressive racing style, but also his mental strength and unshakeable determination that I admire. Despite suffering multiple injuries, he’s always managed to make a strong comeback and dominate on the track.
SOM: How did your family react when you told them you wanted to pursue racing?
Tasmai Cariappa: In the beginning, I didn’t inform my parents. I first shared my interest with my grandmother, Monnanda Jooby Somaiah, who supported me financially so I could join a racing academy. Only after completing my training did I inform my mother and my aunt, Rajini Somaiah, who works as a scientist in St. Louis, USA. Since then, they’ve all been very supportive of my racing journey.
SOM: Mysuru doesn’t have dedicated racing tracks. Where do you usually practice?
Tasmai Cariappa: I regularly train in Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Chennai. Bengaluru is my primary practice location because it has three Go-Kart tracks. I frequently ride at the Velocity International Circuit in Kolathur and the Aruani Grid in Dommasandra. Additionally, I visit the Madras International Circuit in Chennai and the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore every month for advanced training.
SOM: Motorcycle racing involves a high risk of accidents. How do you manage that risk?
Tasmai Cariappa: Yes, the risks are there. But as you gain experience and improve your riding skills, the risk starts to reduce. A major part of staying safe also depends on the quality of your racing gear — your race suit, helmet, gloves and boots.
High-quality gear plays a crucial role in protecting you during crashes. Apart from that, maintaining physical fitness is essential — it strengthens your body and helps you recover quickly in case of a fall.
SOM: Injuries take time to heal and can be expensive to treat. Since motorsport doesn’t get much support in India, how do you manage your finances?
Tasmai Cariappa: In professional racing, we have what’s called Circuit Insurance, which covers medical expenses during events. However, beyond that, it’s essential to consult reputable doctors and physiotherapists. They help design recovery plans, recommend the right nutrition, and guide you to bounce back faster and stronger.
SOM: Is the fitness routine for motorsport different from other sports?
Tasmai Cariappa: Absolutely. Racing demands both physical and mental strength. It’s not just about building muscle or endurance — it’s about total body fitness. My routine includes CrossFit, Yoga, mobility drills, reflex training for quicker reactions, and stamina-building exercises. Mental sharpness is just as important as physical readiness when you’re on the track.
SOM: What kind of diet do you follow?
Tasmai Cariappa: Diet varies from person to person based on their age, weight, and the bike category — whether it’s 400cc, 600cc or 1000cc. As the G-force increases with higher-capacity bikes, your body needs to be strong enough to handle it. So, nutrition plays a critical role. Most of us follow a high-protein, low-carb, and fibre-rich diet. You can’t just eat anything — every element in the diet must be planned to support your performance.
SOM: You’ve chosen the Kawasaki Ninja 400 as your race bike. Why that model?
Tasmai Cariappa: In my category, riders can opt for the Yamaha R3 or KTM RC 390 as well. But I’ve chosen the Kawasaki Ninja 400 because it performs better at the top end and has a more reliable engine.
It also has a slight edge in displacement — about 50cc more than the Yamaha R3 and KTM RC 390, which makes a difference in race conditions. For long runs of 8-10 laps, engine reliability becomes crucial, and the Ninja 400 holds up very well.
Proud moment – Tasmai with his mother Dr Nalini Somaiah
OM: Do you see yourself racing in higher categories in the future?
Tasmai Cariappa: Yes. I want to race in higher categories — especially in the 1000cc segment. But I believe in taking it step by step. It’s a physically demanding sport, and it’s important to gradually build your knowledge of the bike and your own skill level before moving up. My dream is to represent India on the global stage at world championship-level events.
SOM: What are your thoughts on the newly launched Indian Superbike League (ISBL)?
Tasmai Cariappa: Indian motorsport is growing and the ISBL is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring racers. It’s especially valuable for those who are passionate about racing but don’t own a superbike. Ducati stepping in to provide the bike and gear for selected riders is a big move for the sport in India. The selection process will be tough, but getting through it would be a game-changing opportunity for any racer.
SOM: Thank you, and all the best !
Tasmai Cariappa: Thank you !
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by S N Venkatnag Sobers / July 12th, 2025
Team Pale Taluk emerged as the champions of Kodava Hockey Premier League – 2025 defeating Coorg Titans 3-1 in the finals held at Chamundi Vihar Stadium Hockey Grounds here yesterday.
In the first half, Coorg Titans was leading 1-0 after converting a penalty. Pale Taluk came back strongly in the second half to score three consecutive goals to emerge champions. Kodavu Warriors won the third place.
The winners were awarded a cash prize of Rs. 1.50 lakh while the runner-up team received Rs. 1 lakh cash reward along with trophies.
The jubilant Pale Taluk team posing with winner’s trophy at Chamundi Vihar Stadium in city yesterday.
Earlier, presiding over the valedictory event, Legal Advisor to Chief Minister and MLA Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna expressed his happiness over the tournament being organised in Mysuru for the Kodava community and also congratulated Kodava Samaja Youth Wing Mysuru, Kodava Samaja Mysuru and Hockey Mysore for the success of 3-day tournament.
“We have been encouraging all sports including hockey in Kodagu as sports is an integral part of our culture. The State Government has been providing sufficient funds for promoting sports which has to be utilised efficiently. An 11-acre land has been identified in Virajpet taluk which will be developed into a sports facility,” he added.
Coorg Titans posing with their runner-up trophy.
Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES) Commissioner R. Chethan, in his address, expressed concerns about youngsters committing suicide even for a small loss despite being excellent in their academics. He called upon the sportspersons to take the loss positively and come back stronger to emerge victorious.
Urging the parents to encourage their children to take up sports which not only helps in being physically fit but mentally stronger as well, Chethan lauded the Kodava Samaja Youth Wing for hosting the tournament by bringing community people from Mysuru and Kodagu together.
No players from Karnataka in National team
DYES Commissioner Chethan regretted the absence of Karnataka players in the National side. “Earlier, at least 3-4 players from the State, majority from Kodagu, were a part of the National Hockey team. However, it is disheartening to note that not a single player from the State was a part of the National team which won bronze in the previous Olympics.
A detailed discussion has been held with Hockey Karnataka and DYES is ready to provide all necessary facilities to improve the sport,” he added.
United Kodava Organisation Convener Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa, Vamcy Merla Sports Foundation’s Pradeep Urs, Hockey Mysore President Konganda Dilip Biddappa, Kodava Samaja Mysuru President Ponjanda A. Ganapathy, Gynaecologist Dr. Appaneravanda Sonia Mandappa, actor Shwetha Chengappa, advocate Smitha Devaiah, Indian Hockey player C.B. Poovanna, Kodava Samaja Youth Wing Mysuru President Kotera Vedith Uthaiah, Technical Official Pullangada Rohini Bopanna, motorsport enthusiast Vamcy Merla and others were present.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / June 30th, 2025
Harshel Kaveri, a member of Ashwini Sports Foundation – Karumbaiah Academy for Learning & Sports (KALS), Kodagu, has qualified for Nationals in Shooting with a score of 377/400 at the 29th All India G.V. Mavalankar Shooting Championship-2019 held at Ahmedabad from Sept.13 to 29.
She took part in the 10m Peep sight Air Rifle (NR) Championship in the Youth, Women Individual category which was the pre-nationals event held at Ahmedabad, Gujarat, last month.
Harshel Kaveri, a Grade 10 student of KALS School, Gonikoppal, is the granddaughter of Chenanda Pandith and Gange, residents of Kuvempunagar, Mysuru.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / October 17th, 2019
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