In a powerful and inspiring episode of the House of Glory podcast we sit down with Preethi Pal, a celebrated Indian para-athlete who made history by becoming the first Indian track and field athlete to win two medals at the Paralympics. The podcast offers a moving account of Preethi’s journey from a small village to the global stage.
From Taunts to Triumph: The Power of Parental Support
Preethi’s story begins in her village of Hashimpur, where she faced constant taunts and negative comments due to a disability affecting her legs. However, she was supported by her parents, particularly her father, who believed in her and famously told her she would one day stand on her own feet and silence her doubters. Her journey into professional sports started after she discovered para-athletics through an Instagram reel, which led her to win two medals at a state-level tournament in Meerut in 2018.
The Path to Glory: A Journey of Grit and Mentorship
Preethi’s initial training was filled with challenges, including a lack of proper facilities and a professional coach. Her dedication was immense, as she cycled 7 km daily just to practice. Her breakthrough came when she moved to Delhi to train under coach Gajendra Singh, the husband of her idol, Simran Sharma. This mentorship and improved training environment significantly enhanced her performance, leading to a remarkable reduction in her race timings.
The Paralympic Dream: Making History
A key highlight of the podcast is Preethi’s historic performance at the Paralympics. She reveals the immense pressure she felt but explains that her desire to “create history” kept her motivated. She describes an emotional moment after winning her first medal, where she was so overwhelmed with joy that she forgot to grab the Indian flag and instead searched for her coach. This victory had a profound impact, changing the perception of her and her family in their community. The people who once doubted her now celebrated her achievements, even organizing a massive rally to welcome her home.
A Message of Positivity and Future Aspirations
Preethi concludes the episode with a message of positivity, emphasizing that a positive mindset is essential for overcoming life’s challenges. She also shares her ambitious future goals, with a strong focus on winning a gold medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of a strong support system, and the ability of one individual to change perceptions and inspire a nation.
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