Olympics 2024: Mirabai Chanu Poised to 'Shine in Paris,’ Enthuses Coach-cum-Father-Figure Vijay Sharma

Add as a preferred source on Google

In the serene confines of Patiala, amidst the clang of weights and the focused determination of athletes, Saikom Mirabai Chanu and her coach, Vijay Sharma, forge a bond that transcends the rigours of training. Their journey together is not merely about winning medals but about overcoming setbacks and emerging stronger each time.

Mirabai Chanu, celebrated as India's pride in weightlifting, faced a formidable hurdle following hip tendonitis and a near miss at the Asian Games podium. Indian weightlifting body's head coach Vijay Sharma, who fondly calls his disciple Mira, spoke to myKhel about the challenging period.

"It was a tough phase for Mira. We recalibrated her training, focused on rehabilitation, and ensured she regained peak form without risking further injury," said Vijay.

Injuries have been a constant companion in Mirabai Chanu's career. After the 2018 Commonwealth Games, she endured a serious lower back injury that sidelined her for nine months, causing her to miss crucial competitions like the 2018 Asian Games and World Championships, which she considers the most challenging period of her career.

Later again in 2022, during intense training, Mirabai Chanu faced another hurdle with injuries to her rotator cuff, shoulder, and wrist, compounded by recurring back pain. At Hangzhou, her right hip gave up. The road to recovery was arduous. Mirabai Chanu immersed herself in a meticulous rehabilitation program, balancing physical therapy with mental fortitude.

"There were moments of doubt, questioning if I could return to my best," Mirabai Chanu shared candidly in a press conference organised by the Sports Authority of India and Indian Weightlifting Association in June.

Under coach Vijay Sharma's guidance, Mirabai Chanu's journey from injury to triumph unfolded step by step. "Vijay sir treated me not just as an athlete but like his own daughter. His unwavering support kept me motivated through the toughest phases," Mirabai Chanu expressed with gratitude.

Months of relentless effort culminated in a pivotal moment at the Phuket World Cup. Mira, back on the platform she cherished, lifted a total of 184 kgs, securing her spot for Paris 2024.

As the Paris Olympics 2024 draws near, the focus intensifies. "The aim is clear - to surpass previous benchmarks and secure another Olympic medal," asserted coach Vijay Sharma, outlining their meticulous preparation regimen.

Mirabai Chanu, with her trademark determination, "I've faced setbacks, but each challenge has made me stronger. Indeed, I'm fully committed to giving my best in Paris," she vowed.

"I am not burdening myself, but I am sure that I will give my best and hence, the medal will follow."

Vijay affirmed, "Mira is completely fit and doing very well in training. The target is to win her second Olympic medal. She has to lift more than the others on that particular day. She is in a very good space mentally. She is looking forward to the games."

From adversity to triumph, Mirabai Chanu's journey embodies resilience, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of champions. Mirabai Chanu, under the guidance of Vijay Sharma but essentially propelled by that indomitable spirit, sets a benchmark for aspiring athletes worldwide.

In Paris, the stage is set for Saikom Mirabai Chanu to confront formidable competitors in the competitive 49 kg weight class. Among her challengers are reigning Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, whose personal best stands at an impressive 217kg, setting her as by far favourite for defending the title.

Mirabai Chanu, the silver medallist from the previous Games, boasts a personal best of 205 kgs, placing her second in the current rankings among her peers. A performance above 200 kgs in the upcoming Olympics could secure her a second medal, making her the first Indian weightlifter to achieve this milestone.

Thailand's Surodchana Khambao and Jourdan Elizabeth Delacruz of the USA, both with personal bests of 200 kg, present formidable competition for the podium. Mihaela-Valentina Cambei of Romania, with a personal best of 199 kg, and Japan's Rira Suzuki, with a best of 197 kg, complete the lineup of challengers.