Current British sumo wrestling champion, Mandeep Singh Kundi is taking on a gruelling challenge to raise awareness and funds for NHS Charities Together.
Mr Kundi is taking on the challenge of attempting to flip a 183kg tyre over 100m at his home in Iver Heath.
The gruelling challenge will take place on Saturday (10th April). and hopes the support of family and friends, the kind donations he’s received so far, and the rhythmic beat of a Bhangra Dhol (Drum) will motivate him to flip the tractor tyre to the finish line.
"The main purpose of the initiative is to get people mentally and physically moving, from being stuck behind technology as well as the impact of the pandemic,” said the 39-year-old.
“In addition, any support received will of course help our wonderful NHS. Like an army at war, they are risking so much to fight and protect us on the front line. Many lives have been lost, and many more may follow, but many have and will be saved because of their selfless service. It would be wonderful to help them in some way.”
Mandeep, the current British sumo champion, believes the solution to our struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic is to get active, whether that’s by flipping a tractor tyre, taking up yoga or simply getting out of the house to go for a short walk.
“The pandemic has had a very deep effect on people both mentally and physically,” he said. “But we need to focus on the solution. It has to be positive and it’s important for people to get active, try and interact with people and not be closed off.
“I want people to relate to this because it’s a universal truth that exercise helps. I want to give people some food for thought to try and get active.”
“The tyre is 183kg,” he said. “I might load it up to take it to 200kg, but whatever, it will be bloody heavy. I’m training three times a week for this but also leave plenty of time for rest which is also important.
“I’ve been inspired by Captain Sir Tom Moore and thought I’d do it at home where I’m blessed to live with my family in a farmhouse. The track is concrete and grass which could mean slippage, especially if it’s wet.
“You hit a wall with every flip. It’s easy to be drawn towards the end but you have to focus on each flip and live in the moment. What really helps, other than your physicality and biomechanics, is your spirit and blessings in the form of donations and people’s positive thoughts. I will take a lot of energy from that. You’ll have more energy at the beginning than as you go on when you’ll naturally slow down.
He added: “While I was born in the UK my heritage is Indian and I’m Punjabi. One of the famous instruments of the Punjab is the Dhol, it’s a big drum you put over your neck and bang it with two sticks. That Bhangra music will help with the energy and atmosphere.”
Mandeep has so far raised over £1,400.00. To help Mandeep raise money for the NHS donate here
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