Antim Panghal Gears Up for Asian Games with High Hopes and Team Spirit
Antim Panghal's Journey to the Asian Games
New Delhi [India], September 8 (Media House): As Antim Panghal sets her sights on the upcoming Asian Games, she carries with her the lessons learned from the Hangzhou 2022 edition, focusing on the challenges ahead.
The Indian wrestling team is currently in training, and Antim highlights the shared goal among her teammates: to secure a medal for India.
“Our training camp is progressing well. We are all united in our goal of winning a medal for our nation. It’s an honor to be one of the six female wrestlers selected. The Asian Games are significant as they occur only once every four years. Once they pass, we must wait another four years,” Antim stated in a press release.
Her primary focus is on the Asian Games, emphasizing the importance of technique in her preparation. The inclusion of Japanese coach Kosei Akaishi, who leads the discipline at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), has provided the wrestlers with valuable insights to enhance their skills, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages collective improvement.
“Currently, we are concentrating on refining our techniques. Coach Akaishi from Japan has been instrumental in our training, imparting a wealth of knowledge. The Indian team camps are incredibly beneficial as we learn extensively from one another. Working together brings out the best in each of us,” she added.
Antim understands the weight of representing India, having felt the pride and pressure 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 didn’t realize was historic until later.
“My sister, who played kabaddi, encouraged me to take up wrestling. When I won the Junior World Championship, I was unaware that I was the first Indian to achieve this. I only learned of this fact when my coach informed me at the airport after the event. That moment made me realize how significant my victory was,” Antim reflected.
Since the 2022 Commonwealth trials, IIS has been a crucial supporter of her journey, providing everything from physiotherapy to training equipment, allowing her to concentrate on her athletic development.
“I received sponsorship from IIS during the Commonwealth trials in 2022, and their support has been unwavering. They assist me with physiotherapy, equipment, and all other needs, which has been invaluable,” she noted.
With the World Championships set to follow the Asian Games, Antim is already contemplating the next phase of her career and her aspirations for the Olympics. However, her immediate focus remains on the upcoming competition and the opportunity to represent India once again.
“Hard work is the key to success. I will give my all in the World Championship trials after the Asian Games, and I hope to qualify for the Olympics through those trials,” Antim concluded.