Intellectual disability no deterrent for this Delhi youth

In a display of grit and determination, 22-year-old Delhi resident Ekjot Singh, who has a 50 per cent permanent brain disability, lifted 150 kg to clinch gold medal in powerlifting at the Special Olympics Bharat held recently in the Capital.

Special Olympics Bharat, a National Sports Federation accredited by the Special Olympics International, organises sporting events to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities through regular training and competitions.

Competing in the 21-and-above category, Ekjot’s victory stood out among 90 participants across events.

Diagnosed with mild mental retardation, a form of intellectual disability, Ekjot studied at Modern School up to Class IX before completing his schooling through National Institute of Open Schooling. After Class XII, he began training at a gym in Tilak Nagar, where a coach recognised his strength and encouraged him to compete at the state level.

“His trainer asked him to appear in the state competition, which was meant for physically disabled children,” said Satinder Pal Singh, Ekjot’s father. “He competed for the first time at this level and won the gold medal,” he said.

The achievement brought immense joy not only to Ekjot’s family but also to the gym community that supported him throughout his training. His trainer, elated with the result, has now committed to preparing him for interstate competitions.

For Ekjot and his family, the medal represents much more than just athletic success. It is a testament to his resilience, the support he received and the power of inclusion in sports.