"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#youngchampion

Star Citizens

First of Many : Chikitha Taniparthi Wins India’s First U21 Compound Gold

For most athletes, standing atop a podium is the result of years of sacrifice, training, and discipline. For 20-year-old Chikitha Taniparthi, the road to gold at the World Youth Archery Championships in Canada was anything but smooth. Just a few months ago, she was denied the chance to make her senior international debut at the 2025 Archery World Cup Stage 1 in Florida after her visa was rejected. Her time did come in fashion. On a rainy, windy afternoon in Winnipeg, she defeated Korea’s Yerin Park 142-136 in the final to clinch India’s maiden U21 women’s compound individual world title.Fighting Jet Lag and WeatherChikitha’s preparations were far from ideal. She was among the last Indian archers to reach Canada, barely leaving her time to adapt to the cold, wet, and windy conditions. The final was her first-ever individual gold medal match, but she remained calm and focused. Hailing from Sultanpur village in Pedapalli district, Telangana, Chikitha is the first sportsperson in her family. Her father, a farmer, once dreamed of being an athlete himself but was forced to give up due to lack of resources. He decided his daughter would chase the dream he couldn’t. Her mother, a homemaker, is waiting for her return with her favourite chicken dish.Mentorship That Changed Her LifeChikitha’s career took a decisive turn when she began training under veteran archer Abhishek Verma, one of India’s most decorated international compound archers. What started as a brief training stint soon became a life-changing experience. Within just five days of practice under his mentorship, Chikitha’s potential began to shine, and she went on to clinch a silver medal at the sub-junior nationals in 2021. This breakthrough not only boosted her confidence but also opened the doors to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) training centre in Sonepat, where she could refine her skills further. Training alongside Verma and observing his disciplined approach to the sport had a profound influence on her young career. His guidance and experience became an anchor as she navigated the early challenges of competitive archery, shaping her into the resilient and focused athlete who now stands at the top of the junior world.First Indian to Do ItDespite the magnitude of her achievement, Chikitha did not immediately realize the historic nature of her victory. It was only later that she learned she had become the first Indian to clinch gold in the individual compound event at the World Youth Championships. The moment carried even more weight as her win contributed to India’s overall tally of eight medals—four gold, two silver, and two bronze—making it one of the nation’s best-ever performances at the prestigious tournament. For Indian archery, her triumph was not just another medal but a breakthrough that underscored the country’s growing strength on the global stage.Understanding the Compound EventArchery has two main disciplines: recurve and compound. While recurve is the traditional Olympic format, compound archery uses a more advanced bow equipped with pulleys and cables that reduce the strain on the archer while drawing. This allows for greater stability, precision, and accuracy, especially over longer distances. The compound event demands immense focus and technical mastery, as even the smallest deviation can cost valuable points. Chikitha’s gold in this highly competitive category at the World Youth Championships highlights her exceptional skill and places her among the finest young talents in global archery.Looking AheadThe young archer, currently pursuing a BA (Hons), knows that her journey has only just begun. With her eyes set firmly on the future, she aims to bring more glory to India at the senior level, proving that her recent triumph is only the beginning of a larger mission. Her success stands not just as a personal milestone but also as a beacon of inspiration for countless young athletes in rural India, especially girls who aspire to break barriers and carve their own paths in the world of sports. At its heart, Chikitha’s story is not just about gold medals or record books. It is about a father’s unfulfilled dream passed down to his daughter, a mother’s love waiting at home, and a young woman’s refusal to give up despite setbacks. Every arrow she shoots carries not just her own ambition but the hopes of a family, a village, and now, a nation. From missing her first senior international tournament to conquering the world stage at just 20, Chikitha Taniparthi’s story is one of humility and hope. As she returns home to Telangana with India’s first U21 women’s compound world title, one thing is clear: her journey has just begun, and the world of archery will be hearing her name for years to come.

30 Aug 2025
Star Citizens

Young, Fearless, and Victorious: Vedika Bhansali Puts India on Junior Golf’s World Map

At just nine years old, Vedika Bhansali from Bengaluru has achieved what many athletes spend a lifetime chasing. She emerged victorious at the US Kids World Championship held in Pinehurst Village, North Carolina, competing in the Girls 9 category. Her exceptional bogey-free final round of 4-under 32 sealed the championship, making her the first Indian in her age group to achieve this feat at one of the world’s most prestigious junior golf tournaments. This historic win is more than just a trophy; it's a defining moment for India’s standing in the global youth golfing arena. Vedika’s calmness under pressure, technical skill, and mental maturity have drawn widespread praise from Indian golf officials and global enthusiasts alike.A Masterclass in Focus and PrecisionVedika’s journey to victory at Pinehurst wasn’t just about talent; it was about discipline and composure. Over several intense rounds, she remained consistent, navigating one of the toughest junior golf courses with poise far beyond her years. Her final round, flawless and bogey-free, was a masterclass in junior golf, showing not only her skill with the club but also her strategic mind and emotional control. Her coach, who has closely mentored Vedika through years of rigorous practice, pointed out that it was her “unwavering focus, hard work, and the strong support system” that made all the difference. That support included family, coaching, and access to top-tier training—all vital for young athletes navigating international competition.The US Kids World Championship: A Launchpad for Future ProsThe US Kids World Championship is widely recognized as the pinnacle of junior golf competitions, drawing elite young players from over 50 countries. It is not only a test of technical skills but also a celebration of discipline, focus, and sportsmanship. The event is held annually at Pinehurst, a legendary golf village in North Carolina that has hosted multiple professional majors. For children, it serves as both a global arena and a learning ground. A win at this level, like Vedika’s, opens doors to future scholarships, sponsorships, and a real shot at a professional career. It also gives young players the exposure to high-pressure competition, a valuable experience that builds resilience and readiness for the global sports arena. What Is Golf? A Simple Guide to the Sport and Its RulesGolf is a sport where players aim to hit a small ball into a series of holes using a set of clubs. The main goal in golf is to complete each hole in as few strokes as possible. It is played outdoors on large areas of land called golf courses, which usually have either 9 or 18 holes. Each hole begins at a starting area called the tee and ends at a small hole in the ground on a carefully maintained area called the green.Players use different types of clubs depending on the distance and the type of shot they want to make. For example, they might use a driver for long-distance shots, irons for medium-range shots, and a putter when they are close to the hole. The ball must be played from where it lands after each stroke, unless special rules allow otherwise. Golf has some basic rules. Players must play honestly and keep count of every stroke they take. The player who finishes all the holes with the fewest total strokes is the winner. If a ball goes out of bounds or into water, there are penalties, usually in the form of extra strokes added to the score. Golf also emphasizes good behavior and sportsmanship. Players are expected to respect each other, take turns, and stay quiet while others are playing. Golf is a peaceful and skillful game that requires focus, patience, and practice. It can be played for fun or as a competitive sport at local, national, and international levels. It's suitable for all ages and is often enjoyed as a lifelong activity.Changing the Game: India’s Emerging Golf RevolutionFor decades, golf in India remained on the margins, limited by accessibility. However, the last decade has seen a silent revolution. The rise of golf academies in cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Delhi; the increase in tournaments at the junior level; and support from national federations have all contributed to nurturing young talent like Vedika. Importantly, there has been a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, with sponsorships and training programs helping bridge the gap for kids from non-golfing backgrounds. This win, therefore, is not just Vedika’s alone; it belongs to every coach, parent, and mentor who believes that golf can be a sport for all.Vedika’s win is the beginning of what could be a phenomenal golfing career. If nurtured with continued support, exposure, and mentorship, she could become India’s next golfing icon. The green at Pinehurst saw more than just a tournament; it saw a young Indian girl's dream take flight.

8 Aug 2025
Star Citizens

Sports Spirit

Howrah’s Koyel Bar Breaks Youth World Record, Inspires a New Era in Indian Weightlifting

In the bustling heart of Howrah, West Bengal, where narrow lanes and modest livelihoods define everyday life, emerged a story that is now echoing across the global sporting world. At just 17, Koyel Bar achieved a milestone many only dream of: lifting a total of 192 kg in the women’s 53 kg category to set a new Youth World Record at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships. Her performance was not only about winning medals—though she bagged double gold in the youth and junior categories—but also about raising the benchmark for young Indian athletes. Her total lift was even greater than Sneha Soren, who secured silver in the senior category with 185 kg. Koyel didn’t just win; she announced her arrival to the world.A Journey Rooted in Humble BeginningsWhat makes Koyel’s story compelling is not just her victory but also her roots. Her father runs a small chicken shop in Howrah, far removed from the glitz and glamour of professional sports. Yet, it was through her father’s simple habit of going to the gym that Koyel was first introduced to the world of strength and training. When she began training seriously, Koyel’s total lift was 147 kg. It was only after coming under the mentorship of Vijay Sharma, India’s chief national weightlifting coach, that her game transformed dramatically. Sharma, who has a keen eye for spotting talent, saw in her not just raw strength but the potential to be a future Olympian. That focus on technique paid off. In just two years, Koyel lifted her performance quite literally from 147 kg to an extraordinary 192 kg. Her routine lifts during training in clean and jerk ranged between 107 and 108 kg, and on the big day, she delivered with confidence. She even came agonizingly close to lifting 109 kg, a proof of her growing strength and ambition.The Role of Scientific SupportWhile Koyel’s discipline and Sharma’s guidance shaped her path, an important part of her journey was the support provided by Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ). By offering scientific training and performance analysis, OGQ ensured that Koyel and other budding athletes received world-class facilities that went beyond the basics. For a teenager from a modest background, this was more than just assistance; it was a bridge connecting her dreams to reality. The image of Koyel smiling after her double gold medal win is more than just a victory moment—it’s a reflection of years of unseen struggle, early mornings, aching muscles, and sacrifices by both her and her family. For her father, who wakes up every day to manage a small chicken shop, the sight of his daughter standing tall on the international podium is nothing short of poetic. Breaking Barriers for Indian WeightliftingKoyel’s achievement isn’t an isolated victory; it is a significant leap for Indian weightlifting. By outperforming even senior competitors at such a young age, she has opened doors of possibility for many young lifters. India has a storied history in weightlifting, with champions like Mirabai Chanu inspiring a new wave of athletes. Koyel’s performance adds a fresh chapter, one that reflects not only individual brilliance but also the strength of India’s grassroots sporting ecosystem. At 17, Koyel is only at the beginning of her journey. With her eyes now set on larger global competitions and ultimately the Olympics, her record-breaking lift at the Commonwealth Championships is just the first of many milestones to come. Her story is not merely about breaking a world record. It is about hard work, about a father’s influence, a coach’s vision, and a teenager’s courage to dream big.Koyel Has Truly Raised the BarKoyel Bar’s journey is more than just a sporting success. From a chicken shop in Howrah to the global weightlifting stage, her rise symbolizes India’s evolving sporting culture, where young athletes are rewriting history with every lift. And in doing so, Koyel has not just raised the bar; she has redefined it.

28 Aug 2025
Sports Spirit

Sharvari Shende: A Golden Arrow for India at the World Archery Youth Championships

On a cool Sunday in Winnipeg, Canada, 16-year-old Sharvari Somnath Shende stood at the shooting line, bow in hand, facing the weight of a nation’s hopes. One final arrow separated her from history. When she released a perfect 10 in the shoot-off against Korea’s Kim Yewon, the scoreboard confirmed what India had been waiting for. Sharvari was the world champion in the Under-18 women’s recurve category. With this victory, she became only the third Indian woman, after Deepika Kumari and Komalika Bari, to win this prestigious title. It was a defining moment not just for Sharvari, but for Indian archery itself.The Road Less EasySharvari’s journey in Winnipeg was anything but smooth. Seeded 20th after the qualification rounds, she was far from being the favorite. But sport is as much about rankings. Round after round, she defied the odds. In the semi-final, she stunned top seed Kim Minjeong of Korea, securing a 7-3 victory. Then came the ultimate test in the final against third seed Kim Yewon. The match ended in a nerve-wracking 5-5 tie, pushing the contest into a one-arrow shoot-off. And when that arrow landed perfectly in the 10-ring, she sealed her golden destiny.A Dream FulfilledFor Sharvari, the win carried deep personal meaning. Behind this youthful excitement lie years of discipline, practice, and sacrifice. Like most athletes in India’s less-highlighted sports, her journey was built on dedication, the guidance of coaches, and the quiet support of her family in Maharashtra. Sharvari’s performance wasn’t limited to her gold medal alone. Earlier in the week, she had also won a bronze medal in the U18 women’s recurve team event. On the final day, her compatriots Gatha Khadake and Agastay Singh added another bronze in the U18 mixed recurve by defeating Chinese Taipei. In total, India finished the 2025 edition of the World Archery Youth Championships with eight medals—four gold, two silver, and two bronze. This built on India’s dominance in the previous edition in Limerick, Ireland, where the team had clinched six gold medals, including three individual titles.A Platform for Rising StarsThe World Archery Youth Championships is a premier event for the sport, drawing 570 archers from 63 nations. Winning here is more than just a medal; it is recognition on the global stage. Sharvari’s victory signals the depth of India’s youth talent in archery. While the sport often lives in the shadows of cricket and badminton, performances like these prove that India is steadily becoming a powerhouse in precision sports. The next edition of the championship will be hosted in Antalya, Turkiye, in 2027, and India will aim to carry forward this golden momentum. Every medal has a story behind it, and Sharvari’s is one of hard work and belief. Coming from Maharashtra, her rise reflects the changing sporting landscape in India, where young athletes are daring to dream beyond the mainstream.India’s Archery Legacy and the Road AheadIndia’s tryst with archery has produced champions like Limba Ram, Dola Banerjee, Deepika Kumari, and Komalika Bari. Sharvari now joins this legacy, but what makes her win special is her age and the timing. As India invests more in Olympic sports, archery is emerging as a field where consistent talent is being nurtured. The gold medal in Winnipeg is not just about Sharvari; it is also about India’s growing strength in youth development and the promise of a brighter Olympic future. Sharvari Somnath Shende’s win at the World Archery Youth Championships 2025 is more than just a sporting achievement. It is a story of courage, discipline, and dreams taking flight. Her golden arrow in Winnipeg is a reminder that India’s future in world sports lies in the hands of its fearless youth—those who dare to dream big, train harder, and hold their nerve when it matters most.

28 Aug 2025
Sports Spirit

Archives