Koraput: At an age when most would consider slowing down, 65-year-old disabled powerlifter Bhabani Sankar Mishra continues to push his limits. The ten-time state champion and four-time national champion recently clinched the gold medal in the 105 kg category at the Master National Games, held at Bisramunda Stadium in Rourkela from Mar 6 to 9.
“I participated in the 105 kg category with a single aim – to win gold. I trained rigorously, and I am proud to have achieved this for my district,” Mishra said.
Despite losing his right foot in an accident in 2010, Mishra’s unwavering determination propelled him to victory. In 2011, he won a silver medal at the Masters National Bench Press competition in Jammu. Since then, he has dominated the state powerlifting scene, securing five more state titles.
Mishra, a former Junior Warrant Officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF), took up weightlifting after retiring in 2000. “After I retired from the IAF, I joined a local gymnasium to stay fit. Gradually, I started lifting weights, and by 2005, I became the state champion. Since then, I have never looked back,” he said.
Now, Mishra is preparing for the national championship set to take place later this year in Dehradun. “Even at 65, I am still going strong and hopeful of bringing more glory to my state and country in the coming days,” he added.