Biography of Mariyappan Thangavelu:
Mariyappan Thangavelu is an Indian Paralympic high jumper who won a gold medal at the 2016 Summer Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. He was born on June 28, 1995, in Periavadagampatti, a village in Salem district, Tamil Nadu, India.
Here is an overview of his biography:
Early Life and Disability:
Mariyappan Thangavelu was born into a family of limited means. When he was just five years old, he met with a life-changing accident. While he was waiting for his school bus, a drunk bus driver lost control and the vehicle ran over his right leg, stunting its growth. Despite this setback, Mariyappan displayed remarkable determination and resilience from a young age.
Pursuit of Sports and Training:
Despite his disability, Mariyappan was passionate about sports. He was introduced to high jump during his school days and showed exceptional talent in the sport. Recognizing his potential, he started training under the guidance of his coach, Satyanarayana, at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) center in Salem, Tamil Nadu.
Paralympic Success:
Mariyappan Thangavelu made India proud at the 2016 Rio Paralympics. In the T-42 category (for athletes with a disability that affects one leg), he cleared a height of 1.89 meters to win the gold medal in high jump. His inspiring performance not only earned him the top spot but also brought significant attention to para-athletics in India.
Achievements and Recognition:
Arjuna Award: In 2017, Mariyappan was conferred with the Arjuna Award, one of India’s highest honors for achievement in sports.
Padma Shri: In 2018, he was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, in recognition of his contributions to sports.
Continuing Career and Inspiration:
Mariyappan Thangavelu continues to compete in international para-athletics events, serving as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and people with disabilities. His determination and success have made him a role model for countless individuals, proving that with hard work and dedication, one can overcome significant challenges and achieve greatness.
Mariyappan’s journey from a small village in Tamil Nadu to becoming a Paralympic champion highlights the power of resilience, talent, and support in overcoming obstacles and achieving extraordinary feats in the world of sports.