This hawker's son from Gorakhpur fought disablity and went on to win an Olympic gold
Most Indian sportsmen hail from modest backgrounds-where thinking of two square meals is considered as being ambitious. Despite all odds, with close to no support from any national sporting authority, Rajkumar Tiwari, the son of a street hawker in New Delhi’s Sadar Bazar became India’s first ice-skater to win an international gold medal. Rajkumar, as a child, was diagnosed with moderate mental retardation and a hyperactivity disorder, reported NDTV.
Ramkesh, Rajkumar’s father said, “Doctors told me he has a low IQ. But I do not know how many people with ‘high iq’ can match his talent and will power,” reported DNA. It hasn’t been easy on the family. Rajkumar stated that, “We have to spend at least Rs 25-30 thousand on monthly basis for training in MDS Mall, Gurgaon. Although, my brother also works as a helper in a shop to support my dream, I am doing my bit to support my father and my passion.” Rajkumar sells earrings to support the family.
Hailing from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Rajkumar came to Delhi in 2008, for treatment. That is when an NGO named Prabha Institute helped him start his career in hand-ball. For some time, he served as a volunteer in many Ice-Skating events. The area skating director, Virender asked Rajkumar to give a trial.
Rajkumar got selected for the 2013 Winter Games in South Korea. He won a gold medal and decided to never look back. Rajkumar has many laurels to his credit. He is the winner of the bronze medal in the Asia Pacific Games, 2013. He won a silver medal in the National Ice Skating Championship, 2014.
But being a differently-abled athlete in India has its own challenges. “Ice hockey is considered a game of elites. It is very difficult for somebody like me to play this game as there is no support from the government. However, I will do whatever is required to play for India,” said Rajkumar.
Think Change India wishes Rajkumar the very best in his endeavour and hopes that the winning streaks continue taking this talented ice-skater to new heights.
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