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Meeting Paralympian Gold Medallist at IOACON in Goa

About the athletes-

Avani Lekhara (born 8 November 2001) is an Indian Paralympian and rifle shooter. She won a gold medal in 10m air rifle standing and a bronze medal in 50m rifle 3 positions at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Lekhara is currently World No 2 in Women’s 10m Air Rifle standing SH1 (World Shooting Para Sport Rankings) and has competed in the 2018 Asian Para Games. 

Sumit Antil (born 6 July 1998) is an Indian paralympian and javelin thrower. He won a gold medal in men’s javelin throw F64 category at the 2020 Summer Paralympics. He holds the current world record, having thrown 68.55 metres in the Paralympic final. 

My Interaction with them- 

Four Values which stood out after interacting with them are Courage, Determination, Inspiration and Equality.  These trailblazing athletes have emerged as a “role model” for the country’s youngsters.

They have risen above all the challenges. The way they have shown maturity to handle the pressure during competition, they have emerged as a role-models, and we are so proud of them.

These athletes have helped us learn things such as resilience, leadership, accountability, respect, patience and tenacity.  

I was mighty impressed and inspired after meeting them. Ms Avani and Mr Sumit showed so much positivity and optimism in their persona. I had a brief talk with Mrs Lekhara, Avani’s mother. She is a strong lady and a constant source of strength for Avani . 

One other thing I noticed during my conversation was the way their families have extended an unconditional and constant support to the athlete

Message for all those out there :

‘When you fail, you learn a lot about yourself and come back stronger. Life need not have limits. Having an opportunity in life is important but what defines you is what you do with that opportunity.’ 

 

“….What I learned was that these athletes were not disabled, they were super-abled. The Olympics is where heroes are made. The Paralympics is where heroes come.” Joey Reiman

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