Dehradun: In the ongoing 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, emotions ran high as Beena Shah from West Bengal finally clinched gold in lawn bowl (women’s singles), a victory that had been 12 years in the making. Her journey embodies the true spirit of “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak”, from determination to the pinnacle of success. Having previously won two silver medals in the National Games, she arrived this time with just one goal: GOLD. And this time, she made it happen.
Tears welled in Beena’s eyes as she stood atop the podium, holding her gold medal close. “After two silver medals, this time I wanted only gold,” said Beena Shah after her victory. “It’s not just a medal for me; it’s the result of years of hard work.”- She said, her voice filled with emotion.
For Beena, lawn bowl is not just a sport; it’s a passion she has nurtured despite its limited recognition in India. Often overshadowed by mainstream sports, lawn ball has quietly built its place through dedicated athletes like her, who have struggled against the odds for a moment of glory.
Beena’s life symbolizes hard work and resilience. She has fought through extreme doubts and challenges, from training in the silent corners of the sports complexes to keeping up with life’s challenges. She remembers the days when all motivation seemed to waver and with every step was uncertainty; nevertheless, the love for the game drove her on.
Her victory is not just a personal achievement but a ray of hope for budding athletes who aspire to make it in not-so-famous sports. It is a verdict that passion and determination can cross boundaries.
Although Lawn Ball is still considered a small sport in India, Beena’s performances gradually bring lawn ball to the fore. This gold medal should inspire young ones to pick up this sport and that every game, small or big, has champions.
She also complimented the 38th National Games for their arrangements and the support and facilities provided to athletes. Beena Shah’s glory at the 38th National Games is more than a medal; it embodies commitment, pain, and dreams turned into reality. As she stepped off the podium, her eyes still glittering with tears, she took with her not just the gold but also a story to inspire generations ahead.
