Sundar Singh Gurjar, the Indian javelin thrower, has once again made the country proud by winning a bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics. But his journey to this victory is not just about the medals—it’s about the sacrifice, determination, and the breaking of a vow that defined his comeback.
The Price of 52 Seconds
Sundar’s story takes us back to the Rio Paralympics, where he faced a crushing blow. He was disqualified for arriving at the call room just 52 seconds late, shattering his dream of winning a medal. This experience left him deeply hurt, and in that moment of despair, he made a vow to never lift the javelin again.
Why Sundar Singh Broke His Vow
Sundar’s decision to give up javelin was driven by the pain of missing out on his chance in Rio. However, his coach, Mahavir Prasad Saini, saw the potential in him and refused to let that be the end of Sundar’s story. Through counselling and support, Coach Saini convinced Sundar to break his vow for the sake of the nation. Motivated by his coach’s words, Sundar decided to return to the sport he loved, determined to make up for lost time.
From Tokyo to Paris: A Comeback Story
After deciding to lift the javelin again, Sundar Singh Gurjar made an incredible comeback. His first step towards redemption was at the Tokyo Paralympics, where he won a bronze medal for India. This victory was not just a medal; it was a symbol of his resilience and strength. Sundar didn’t stop there. He continued his journey, and at the Paris Paralympics, he once again stood on the podium with a bronze medal around his neck.
Sundar Singh Gurjar’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the will to overcome adversity. From the disappointment of Rio to the triumphs in Tokyo and Paris, Sundar’s journey inspires us all to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
