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UDUPI: Helen Lobo, mother of Suneetha Lobo, broke into tears on her daughter’s achievement. Suneetha bagged the gold medal in Special Olympics held at Pyeong Chang, South Korea.

Suneetha Lobo, 21, was the only representative from the state in the national team of floor hockey that bagged the gold medal in Special Olympics. She said that though it cold out there due to winter and she suffered pain thrice after falling to the ground, the Lord was merciful towards her.

Suneetha was received in a grand reception at Katpady junction and taken out in a ceremonial procession till Pamboor on Saturday. Children of various schools along the route gave her a hearty ovation.

Suneetha said that she would realize her dream of standing on her own by working hard and expressed her wish of going again to South Korea as she enjoyed flying. It was a tough match as all the teams that India took on were equally strong, she said. Asked what she would do in future, Suneetha, who hails from a poor family, said: "I want to look after my mother by working hard and want to continue playing floor hockey."

Remediya D’Souza, president of Manasa Rehabilitation and Training Centre, was happy that Suneetha did not suffer any health setback during her stay. Her concern was that the institution each year spends Rs 150 lakh. Except the central government’s aid of Rs 5.50 lakh and mid-day meal being offered by Shree Krishna temple, the institution is dependent on donors. She points out the need for a playground for the institution.

Kaup MLA Lalaji R Mendon said that the proposal is being scrutinized by the district administration. He announced Rs 10,000 of prize money for Suneetha. Former minister Vasanth Salian was furious that the DC had turned down his request of providing title deeds to 150 applicants in the assembly constituency and a playground for Manasa.

Suneetha had her training on floor hockey in Shimla in the absence of any training institution in Karnataka. The government is yet to announce its support to this gold medallist.