With enthusiasm running high, participants in Champions with Disability Run of about 2.5km at Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) Sunday showed that determination knows no barriers. New Delhi: Neither physical challenges nor limitations could dampen their spirit.
For 33-year-old Shagun Pathak, the appeal also lay in the support that enabled participants to take part with confidence.
I hope to return next year,” he said. I want to keep coming back,” she said. Having been interested in basketball before the accident, she said participating in the run for the second time was particularly rewarding. This year, the arrangements and emergency support stood out, Pathak said. “Knowing that you have that support around you makes a difference,” she said, adding that the experience showed what the right opportunities and support could make possible.
Aryan Rawat, a student at Andh Mahavidyalaya, a residential school for visually impaired students in Connaught Place, was among those making their debut. Originally from Bihar, he had come to be part of the celebrations. The morning left him keen to return. “This was my first time taking part, and it was a wonderful experience. Now, I don’t think I can give this up. She developed neuromuscular issues after an accident when she was eight.
For these participants, the 2.5km course was not a one-time outing but a reason to look forward to the next edition.
My entire team is here, being part of this experience together makes it even more special,” he said. Visually impaired Dhirendra Yadav had his Bihar cricket team alongside. For him, trying something new was made better by sharing it with teammates. “This was my first time, and I am already looking forward to coming back.