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Sandeep Kumar, the Indian born wrestler has created history by becoming the first foreign origin sportsperson to be short listed for the Australian Olympic contingent. After being disillusioned with the state of sports in the country, 25 year old Sandeep migrated to Australia four years ago. A one time Punjab Police constable, Sandeep landed in Australia on the invitation of Kuldip Bassi, founder and president of the United Wrestling club (UWC) in Melbourne.
Sandeep will be competing in the 85 kg freestyle division in the quadrennial event in Beijing Olympics. Sandeep on his selection remarked that he feels very proud and honored to represent Australia at the Olympics. He turned a professional in his teenage years at fifteen. In 1997, he won a gold medal at the Russian Championship. Sandeep is a three time winner of the Australian Asian Championships. Despite his outstanding record, Sandeep did not get a chance to represent his country. Even today he remarks that he could have made India proud had he be given a chance. Sandeep in Australia sustains himself by driving a taxi full time and utilizes the money partially for his training.
