New Delhi: Neither physical challenges nor limitations could dampen their spirit. With enthusiasm running high, participants in Champions with Disability Run of about 2.5km at Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) Sunday showed that determination knows no barriers.For some, it was a first taste of the excitement of a large sporting event. Others were back to relive an experience that had stayed with them long after the finish. Friends and teammates turned up together, adding to the camaraderie. The distance was the same for everyone, but each had a different reason for being there.Aryan Rawat, a student at Andh Mahavidyalaya, a residential school for visually impaired students in Connaught Place, was among those making their debut. Originally from Bihar, he had come to be part of the celebrations. The morning left him keen to return. “This was my first time taking part, and it was a wonderful experience. I hope to return next year,” he said.For Bhavna (27), returning for the second consecutive year was an easy decision. What had been a new experience last year had become something she is eager to repeat. “I have been waiting to come back. There is something about the energy and excitement here that makes you want to return. Now, I don’t think I can give this up. I want to keep coming back,” she said.For 33-year-old Shagun Pathak, the appeal also lay in the support that enabled participants to take part with confidence. She developed neuromuscular issues after an accident when she was eight. Having been interested in basketball before the accident, she said participating in the run for the second time was particularly rewarding.This year, the arrangements and emergency support stood out, Pathak said. “Knowing that you have that support around you makes a difference,” she said, adding that the experience showed what the right opportunities and support could make possible.Visually impaired Dhirendra Yadav had his Bihar cricket team alongside. For him, trying something new was made better by sharing it with teammates. “This was my first time, and I am already looking forward to coming back. My entire team is here, being part of this experience together makes it even more special,” he said.Sunil Kumar (29), who has polio affecting both legs, also joined the run for the first time after learning about it through his organisation. He was glad to have come, and the prospect of another edition was already on his mind.For these participants, the 2.5km course was not a one-time outing but a reason to look forward to the next edition.
