Who is Preeti Pal? The UP-born Para-Athlete Who Bagged India's First Track & Field Medal at Paris Paralympics 2024

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Paris, Aug 30: Indian para-athlete Preeti Pal etched her name in history by clinching a bronze medal in the Women's 100m T35 event at the Paris Paralympics 2024.

With a personal best time of 14.21 seconds, the Uttar Pradesh-born athlete, who will turn 24 in a couple of days, secured India's first track and field medal of the Games, marking a monumental achievement in her athletic career.

This medal also added to India's impressive haul for the day, following the victories of Avani Lekhara and Mona Agarwal in the Women's 10m Air Rifle SH1 event. Also Read: Avani Lekhara Strikes Gold at Paris Paralympics, Mona Agarwal Secures Bronze

Who is Preeti Pal?

Preeti Pal was born on September 22, 2000, in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. She competes in para-athletics, specializing in the Women's T35 100m and 200m events. Preeti trains at the SAI JLN Stadium in New Delhi, focusing on her performance in the T35 disability class, which includes coordination impairments such as hypertonia, ataxia, and athetosis.

Background and Early Life

Preeti Pal's journey to the Paralympics is a story of grit, determination, and an indomitable spirit. Born into a farmer's family in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, Preeti faced significant physical challenges from birth. Just six days after she was born, her lower body was plastered due to weak legs and an irregular leg posture that made her susceptible to various diseases. Despite facing life-threatening conditions and enduring years of traditional treatments to strengthen her legs, Preeti emerged as a fighter.

At the age of five, Preeti began wearing callipers to support her legs, which she continued to wear for eight years. Although many doubted her survival, Preeti defied all odds, showing remarkable resilience and determination.

The Turning Point In Preeti's Career

At 17, Preeti's life took a significant turn when she watched the Paralympic Games on social media. Inspired by the athletes she saw, Preeti realized that she, too, could pursue her dreams. Despite financial constraints that made it difficult to afford transportation to training facilities, Preeti began practicing at a local stadium, determined to make her mark.

Her journey in para-athletics began when she met Paralympic athlete Fatima Khatoon, who introduced her to the world of para-sports. With Fatima's encouragement and support, Preeti competed in the State Para Athletics Championships in 2018. Her talent and determination shone through, leading her to participate in numerous national events.

Rise to Prominence

Preeti's dedication paid off when she qualified for the Asian Para Games in 2022, finishing fourth in both the 100m and 200m sprints. Although she narrowly missed out on a medal, she remained undeterred, setting her sights on the Paralympic Games.

To hone her skills further, Preeti moved to Delhi, where she began training under Coach Gajender Singh at the SAI JLN Stadium. Under his guidance, she focused on refining her running techniques, leading to significant improvements in her performance.

In 2024, Preeti's hard work culminated in her selection for the World Para Athletics Championship, where she won bronze medals in both the 100m and 200m events. These achievements solidified her reputation as one of India's most promising para-athletes.

Preeti Pal Achievements

• World Para Athletics Championship (2024): 2 Bronze Medals
• Asian Para Games (2022): 4th Position in 100m and 200m
• Indian Open Para Athletics International Championship (2024): 2 Gold Medals
• National Para Athletics Championship (2024): 2 Gold Medals

Support and Government Interventions

Preeti's success has been supported by various government initiatives, including financial assistance for training and competitions under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Khelo India. These interventions have provided her with the resources necessary to excel in her sport, including out-of-pocket allowances and access to top-notch training facilities.

A New Chapter in Indian Para Athletics

Preeti Pal's bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics 2024 is more than just a personal triumph; it is a testament to the potential of India's para-athletes. Her journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to the global stage of the Paralympics serves as an inspiration to countless others, proving that with determination, support, and hard work, anything is possible.