Aminul Haque assures support for young triathlete Ferdousi Akter Maria

State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque promised immediate support for Bangladesh’s rising triathlete Ferdousi Akter Maria after she revealed the financial struggles and sponsorship barriers she faced while competing internationally.

The assurance came during a programme organised by Daily Sun, with S Rahman Properties and Bashundhara Medical City as associate partners, reflecting growing corporate engagement in promoting women’s empowerment and inclusion in sports.

“As soon as I heard about Maria’s situation this morning, I called the secretary and the executive director of the National Sports Council and asked them to take immediate action,” Aminul said on Sunday.

The 19-year-old athlete revealed that she has already competed twice in the demanding Ironman 70.3 races, finishing first runner-up on both occasions and securing qualification for the world championship.

Triathlon competitions involve gruelling distances. In a full Ironman race, athletes must complete 3.8 kilometres of swimming, 180 kilometres of cycling, and a 42.2-kilometre marathon, a grand total of 226 kilometres.

Maria currently competes in the Ironman 70.3 format, which includes 1.9 kilometres of swimming, 90 kilometres of cycling, and a 21.1-kilometre run, covering 113 kilometres.

Despite her impressive achievements, Maria said financial hardship nearly prevented her from participating in international events.

For her most recent race in Colombo on 22 February, she struggled to secure sponsorship despite approaching several corporate organisations.

“Many corporate officials assured me initially, but later refused, saying that I am a girl and this event is too tough,” she said.

Eventually, her brother arranged the necessary funds by borrowing money from a friend, enabling her to travel to Sri Lanka and compete.

Maria finished second in the 18–24 age category, missing the title by just four minutes.

Her endurance credentials extend beyond triathlon. She also completed the 100-kilometre Coastal Run as the youngest Bangladeshi woman, finishing second.

Maria further showcased her stamina by successfully swimming the 16-kilometre Bangla Channel from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s Island in seven hours and 12 minutes.

Looking ahead, the young athlete has set her sights on competing in a full Ironman race in November 2026, hoping to create a historic milestone for Bangladesh in endurance sports.

However, she highlighted the financial disparity between competitors.

“The champion’s bicycle cost around Tk18 lakh, while mine was only Tk4 lakh. The equipment required for this sport is very expensive and difficult for my family to afford,” she said.

Responding to her appeal, the State Minister said he had immediately instructed officials at the National Sports Council (NSC) to extend its support to her.

The former Bangladesh football team captain also added that, alongside assistance from the NSC, arrangements are being finalised to secure a permanent sponsor for the athlete from the following day.

Maria, a former student of Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan, hopes the backing will help her chase a South Asian record in the 18–24 age category, and inspire the next generation to take up endurance sports.