NEW DELHI: Ramesh Shanmugam, a 30-year-old para-athlete and a MS Dhoni fan from the distant village of Mannathampatty in Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu, has achieved outstanding success in wheelchair racing.
Regardless of going through quite a few hardships, together with dropping each his legs in a lorry accident on the age of eight, Shanmugam has persevered and emerged as a nationwide report holder within the Males’s 800m T53/T54 occasion.
Shanmugam’s journey has been impressed by his admiration for former Indian cricket captain and an integral member of Chennai Tremendous Kings IPL 2025 facet — Dhoni, whom he idolises for his calm, composed, and disciplined manner.
“As soon as MS Dhoni retires, I’ll cease watching cricket,” he mentioned, as quoted from a launch by SAI Media.
Drawing parallels from Dhoni’s strategy, Shanmugam has utilized comparable rules to his athletic profession, steadily rising by means of the ranks of wheelchair racing in India.
“I used to play cricket again within the day. I used to run quick and likewise was a wicketkeeper. I’ve been to a number of cricket matches as I actually take pleasure in watching the game, particularly our thala MS Dhoni,” he mentioned.
This yr, Shanmugam’s achievements have been noteworthy, with two gold medals and a silver medal on the World Para Athletics Grand Prix, adopted by two extra gold medals within the Males’s 800m T53/T54 and Males’s 100m T53/T54 occasions on the Khelo India Para Video games 2025.
“I really feel I’m heading in the right direction in my profession now. The Sports activities Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth and Sports activities Affairs have executed very well over the previous few years to assist the para athletes. Right here at KIPG, all our fundamental wants are taken care off. We’re getting improbable lodging, the very best mode of journey and meals choices,” he added.
Regardless of going through monetary constraints early in life, Shanmugam’s dedication and the assist of native authorities and the federal government enabled him to proceed his training.
He pursued a B.Sc. in Biochemistry, the place he found his ardour for para sports activities, initially excelling in para basketball earlier than transitioning to para athletics two years in the past.
“Now my mother and father are very completely happy. In 2023, Khelo India Para Video games, I had gained bronze. This time, I’ve gained two gold medals. They’re delighted with my progress. My household have at all times been with out massive supporters, together with my spouse. With out them I couldn’t have gained a single medal,” he famous.
“They’re permitting me to fulfil my goals. I wish to be chosen for the Paralympics and win gold there to make my nation proud.”
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