Antim Panghal Gears Up for Asian Games with Team Spirit and Olympic Aspirations
Team-Driven Mindset for Asian Games
As Antim Panghal prepares for her return to the Asian Games, she carries the lessons learned from the Hangzhou 2022 edition and is focused on the upcoming challenges. Currently, the Indian wrestling team is training collectively, and Antim emphasizes that the camp's atmosphere is fueled by a shared goal of winning medals for the nation. "Our training is progressing well. We are all united in our ambition to secure a medal for India. Being one of the six girls selected is an honor. The Asian Games are significant as they occur only once every four years; once they pass, we must wait another four years," she stated in a press release.
An Unforeseen Champion's Journey
Antim understands the weight of representing India, having felt both the pressure and pride of competing at elite levels. Her wrestling journey began through her elder sister, a kabaddi player who introduced her to the sport. One of her early achievements was winning the Junior World Championship, a milestone she was unaware of at the time, as she didn't know she was the first Indian to achieve this feat. "My sister got me into wrestling. When I won the Junior World Championship, I had no idea that I was the first Indian to do so. I only learned this when my coach informed me at the airport after the event," Antim reminisced.
Crucial Support System
Since the 2022 Commonwealth trials, Antim has received support from the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), which has been instrumental in her development. From physiotherapy to training equipment, she credits IIS for allowing her to concentrate on her performance. "I was sponsored by IIS during the Commonwealth trials in 2022, and they have been a constant source of support. Whether it’s physiotherapy, gear, or any other needs, they have been there for me in every aspect," she remarked.
Eye on Olympics, Focus on Present
With the World Championships set to follow the Asian Games, Antim is already contemplating the next phase of her career and her Olympic aspirations. However, her immediate focus remains on the upcoming competition and seizing the opportunity to represent India once again. "Hard work is the key to everything. I will give my all in the World Championship trials after the Asian Games and aim to qualify for the Olympics through those trials," Antim concluded.