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Swimmer Shams Aalam Sheikh has written history yet again through his perseverance and dedication, making the country immensely proud with joy and gratitude! He has won not only but three medals at the World Open Para Swimming Championship, held at Zagreb, Croatia.
Hailing from Madhubani, Bihar, Sheikh won a silver medal in the 100 meters breaststroke, another silver with a national record in the 200 meters individual medley, and a bronze in the 50 meters butterfly event. In an exclusive interview with Patnabeats, he shares his experience and how his journey, with its own ups and downs, has not stopped him from making history.
He expresses his gratitude and happiness, and how much this win means, thankful for all the people who’ve supported and been with him through this journey! This win is extremely special because not only did he win the medal but also broke his national record for the 200m swimming championship, it's an impeccable achievement. He gave his personal best in other events also, but timing plays a huge role in such competitions.
One being asked about the key to his success he emphasized on the importance of “practice makes perfect” and also love and support from your loved ones, working day and night, he added if it weren’t for his coaches, family members’ support, especially his wife for always being there through all the thick and thin, none of it would have been possible.
The journey to this achievement was not an easy one, there were hurdles not only on the field but also on the way to the championship. To which he shared an instance that 3 people had originally been selected for the game by the Sports Authority of India however one of the colleagues Ali Imam couldn’t get the visa on time because of some mismanagement but support staff Mr Vijendra Singh, who is also the strength and conditioning coach was also supposed to accompany him however couldn’t make it to the game, he further explained how being on wheelchair, that too in another country is very difficult and so there was a lot of issues in traveling and accommodation, however despite the lack of means, Shams emerged victorious and was overwhelmed by all the support he had been receiving.
When asked about his future plans and goals he shared about the upcoming Paralympic trials on 17th of July, which is also his birthday! He shares how there are a lot of hurdles to overcome but one must also thrive in the face of challenges.
He further talks about how Bihar is growing in sports in the last few years. Under the guidance of Director General of Sports Mr Ravinder Shankar, IPS office. He urges the youth and aspiring players and athletes to not hesitate and take the leap of faith and move forward to achieve your dreams.
When being asked about perseverance and success he says mental health and strength is just as important as physical strength is. Positivity plays a huge role in maintaining this relationship with mental health! This can be done through little steps in daily lives, even waking up and making your bed and these little accomplishments lead to a happy day and happy life!
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