Selim Reza, a physically challenged boy from Kushtia, hogged the limelight on the opening day of the 32nd National Junior (age-level) Athletics Championships despite finishing fourth in the high jump event at the Bangabadhu National Stadium yesterday.

Reza, a resident of remote Chilmari village of Kushtia, represented Narail district after failing to secure a place in Kushtia contingent due to his physical limitations. Yesterday he cleared 1.6 metres, which was 0.15 metres less than the bronze medal winner, Markoni Joy’s effort.

The 16-year-old Reza, who has a defective right foot which is a bit smaller than his left foot, had attracted the attention of Narail coach Dilip Chakrabarti during the Summer School Championship two years ago, which he had become champion.

“I wanted to participate for Kushita but I was not given the opportunity. Later I was introduced to Dilip sir and he gave me the opportunity to participate for Narail. Now I am training under him and staying at his house,” said Selim, who has been inspired to see blade runner Oscar Pistorius.

“Though I never saw him (Oscar) running, I saw him on newspapers. If he can run with steel blade, why can’t I do my job?” said Selim.

Coach Dilip is optimistic about Selim and wants to give him opportunity in Special Olympics.

“I was impressed to see his interest in the last national meet and I want him to produce a good result in the Special Olympics,” said Dilip.

In the 100m sprint, Mohammad Hasan Mia of BKSP and Sonia Akter of the same institution became the fastest boy and girl respectively.

Having eclipsed the previous record created by Ashrafuzzaman Rochi (10.70 seconds), Hasan, a class-VIII student, set up a new record with a timing of 10.60 seconds (handtime). Sultan Sanjid and Shimul Karmakar finished second and third with timing of 11.40 and 11.50 seconds.

Sonia emerged fastest clocking 12.55 seconds while Rupa Khatun and Shova Khatun won the silver and bronze medals respectively timing 12.70 and 13.76 seconds.