Preethi Pal wins second medal for India, bronze medal in 200m women’s T35 after 100m bronze

Preethi became the first-ever Indian woman track and field athlete to win two medals at the Paralympics or Olympics.

China’s Zhou Xia (13.58) and Guo Qianqian (13.74) won the gold and silver respectively. T35 classification is meant for athletes who have coordination impairments such as hypertonia, ataxia and athetosis, as well as cerebral palsy.

Preeti was born to a farmer’s family. She faced significant physical challenges, when she was born, her lower body was plastered 6 Days after birth. With weak legs and an irregular leg posture, making her prone to various diseases. She underwent various traditional treatments to strengthen her legs. 

At the age of five, she started wearing calipers and wore them for eight years. Despite many doubting her survival, Preeti proved to be a fighter, overcoming life-threatening conditions and emerged victorious, demonstrating with incredible strength and resilience. 

At 17, Preethi’s perspective began to shift when she watched the Paralympic Games on social media. She was inspired and realized that she too could pursue her dreams.

Although she didn’t win a medal at the Asian Para Games, Preeti remained motivated and aimed for the Paralympic Games. She moved to Delhi to train under Coach Gajender Singh. Together, they focused on refining her running techniques, leading to significant improvements in her performance.

Preeti’s dedication and hard work culminated in her selection for the World Para Athletics Championship, where she excelled, winning bronze medals in both the 100m and 200m events in 2024.

(With agency inputs)

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