From Working At 13 To Representing India At Asian Games: 23-Year-Old Arun's Remarkable Journey From Financial Struggles To Sepak Takraw Glory
At just 23, Delhi’s Arun is set to represent India at his second Asian Games, competing in the men’s team regu and quadrant events in sepak takraw. His journey to the continental stage has been anything but easy, having balanced school, work and training from the age of 13 amid financial struggles. Speaking exclusively to The Free Press Journal , Arun opened up about his inspiring journey, his…
Delhi-born Arun is poised to represent India for his second consecutive Asian Games appearance in the men’s team regulation and quadrangle events of sepak takraw. His path to the continental arena has been far from simple, as he juggled school, employment and training since the tender age of 13 while grappling with financial hardships.
In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, Arun shared insights into his remarkable journey, his passion for this distinctive sport, and his aspiration to secure a gold medal for India. Here are some highlights from his conversation:
Arun reminisced about his childhood and how he first discovered sepak takraw in school. It was during physical education classes when his teacher introduced him to the game, sparking his interest in sports.
When asked about the reactions of his family and friends upon his decision to pursue sepak takraw professionally, Arun reported a positive response. He found the sport refreshing and unlike any other, which piqued his curiosity and ultimately led him to dedicate himself to it.
Given that sepak takraw is not widely known among Indian sports enthusiasts, Arun attempted to explain the sport to someone watching it for the first time. He likened it to a fusion of three sports – gymnastics, volleyball, and the iconic bicycle kick from football.
Written by urgent.news from Free Press Journal's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
