athletics paralympics

 

Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at 2024 Paralympics in women’s T35 100m event

Updated: August 31, 2024 08:26 IST

Preethi Pal has made history by winning India’s first bronze medal in para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics, held in Paris. Competing in the women’s T35 100m event, Preethi clocked a personal best time of 14.21 seconds, securing a spot on the podium. China's Zhou Xia and Guo Qianqian took home the gold and silver medals with times of 13.58 seconds and 13.74 seconds, respectively. The T35 classification, where Preethi excelled, is reserved for athletes with coordination impairments such as hypertonia, ataxia, athetosis, and cerebral palsy. 

Born to a farmer’s family, Preethi Pal’s journey to this incredible achievement has been one of remarkable perseverance and determination. From the moment she was born, Preethi faced significant physical challenges. Her lower body was plastered just six days after birth due to weak legs and an irregular leg posture, making her prone to various ailments. However, Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event despite these early struggles.

As Preethi grew older, her family sought out various traditional treatments to strengthen her legs. At the tender age of five, Preethi began wearing calipers, a challenging experience that lasted for eight years. Many doubted her survival, but Preethi Pal’s indomitable spirit and resilience shone through. Her journey was not just about overcoming physical limitations; it was about proving to herself and the world that she could rise above the odds.

Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, a testament to her unyielding dedication and hard work. At the age of 17, Preethi’s life took a significant turn when she watched the Paralympic Games on social media. This exposure ignited a new fire within her, as she realised that she, too, could chase her dreams on the global stage. Although her initial foray into international competition at the Asian Para Games did not yield a medal, Preethi’s resolve only strengthened.

Driven by the desire to excel at the Paralympics, Preethi Pal relocated to Delhi to train under the guidance of Coach Gajender Singh. Their partnership was a game-changer, as they focused on refining her running techniques and enhancing her overall performance. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, a dream realised through years of relentless training and perseverance.

Preethi’s story is not just one of athletic achievement but of immense personal growth and transformation. Moving away from her family and familiar surroundings to train in Delhi was a daunting decision, but Preethi was determined to make the necessary sacrifices. Under Coach Gajender Singh’s mentorship, Preethi’s potential was unlocked, leading to significant improvements in her speed, technique, and mental toughness. The result of this hard work was evident when Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event.

Before her triumph in Paris, Preethi had already made waves at the World Para Athletics Championships in 2024, where she won bronze medals in both the 100m and 200m events. These victories were a clear indication of her growing prowess on the track and served as a precursor to her historic performance at the Paralympics. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, marking a new chapter in Indian sports history.

The T35 classification, in which Preethi competes, is designed for athletes who have coordination impairments that affect their ability to run smoothly. Despite these challenges, Preethi has consistently pushed her boundaries, showcasing her incredible determination and grit. Her bronze medal at the 2024 Paralympics is not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for India in the field of para-athletics. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, inspiring countless others with disabilities to pursue their dreams.

Preethi’s journey to the Paralympics was fraught with challenges, both physical and emotional. However, her unwavering focus and the support of her coach and family kept her moving forward. The years of wearing calipers, enduring painful treatments, and overcoming life-threatening conditions have shaped Preethi into the resilient athlete she is today. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, a culmination of her lifelong battle against the odds.

The impact of Preethi Pal’s achievement extends beyond the track. Her story is one of hope and inspiration for many who face similar challenges. By winning a bronze medal at the Paralympics, Preethi has not only etched her name in the annals of Indian sports history but has also paved the way for future generations of para-athletes. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, proving that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.

Preethi’s success at the Paralympics is a testament to the power of dreams and the importance of believing in oneself. Her journey from a small village in India to the global stage of the Paralympics is nothing short of extraordinary. It serves as a reminder that every obstacle can be overcome with hard work, resilience, and the unwavering support of those who believe in your potential. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, an achievement that will be remembered for years to come.

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As Preethi Pal stands on the podium, draped in the Indian flag, her bronze medal shining brightly, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and triumph. Her journey is a beacon of hope for many, a story of how one young woman defied the odds and made history. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, a moment of pride for her, her family, and the entire nation.

In conclusion, Preethi Pal’s victory at the 2024 Paralympics is more than just a medal; it is a symbol of her strength, resilience, and unyielding determination. Her achievement in the women’s T35 100m event has not only brought glory to India but has also inspired countless individuals to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face. Preethi Pal wins India’s first bronze medal from para-athletics at the 2024 Paralympics in the women’s T35 100m event, marking a new era in Indian sports and setting the stage for many more victories to come.