Nirmal Singh Grewal Inspires Youth to Excel in Athletics

A Call to Action for Young Athletes

Nirmal Singh Grewal, a distinguished hammer thrower from Ludhiana, has made a significant impact on the international athletics scene. He encourages the younger generation to focus their energy and talents towards achieving success in their chosen fields.

Grewal first gained recognition in 1961 during the All India Inter-Varsities and National Athletics Championship, and again in 1964 at the All India Athletics Championship in Delhi, where he set a new record by throwing the hammer 53.89 meters, breaking the previous record of 52.20 meters. This accomplishment led to his recruitment by Indian Railways, from which he retired in 2002 as an Executive Engineer.

In 1971, he clinched a gold medal at the International Athletics Competition in Singapore, and his remarkable performance at the 1974 Asian Games in Tehran earned him a silver medal. He also finished fourth at the 1978 Asian Games in Bangkok.

For over two decades, Nirmal Singh was a dominant force in athletics, holding the title of national champion (Railways) for an impressive 22 years. He was the first Indian hammer thrower to secure a medal at the Asian Games, a feat previously achieved only by sprinters.

After retiring, Grewal frequently visited Guru Nanak Stadium in Ludhiana, where he and fellow coach Amarjeet Singh Kahlon dedicated their time to mentoring aspiring athletes, sharing their expertise and techniques to help them improve.

Their guidance played a crucial role in nurturing local talent, with many of their students achieving success in national competitions.

Although Grewal has not returned to the stadium since the Covid-19 pandemic, the influence of his coaching continues to resonate with the athletes he trained.

He urges young sports enthusiasts to utilize their skills effectively, stating, 'By directing their energy and talents positively, young individuals can significantly contribute to the nation's progress.'

Sanjeev Sharma, a senior athletics coach with the Punjab Sports Department and head of the district coaching center at the stadium, expressed his appreciation for Grewal and Kahlon, noting that their mentorship has been instrumental in helping athletes enhance their abilities and reach their aspirations.