Security Guard’s Daughter Skates to National Gold from Humble Beginnings
Pune resident Shraddha Gaikwad, hailing from the town of Wagholi, has become a rising star in the world of skateboarding. At just 16 years old, she recently achieved a remarkable feat by winning gold at the National Games in the skateboarding street category. Shraddha’s journey, starting from modest origins and culminating in national recognition, serves as a truly inspiring tale.
Originally from Beed, a less developed area in Maharashtra, Shraddha’s family faced numerous hardships that eventually led them to relocate to Pune. However, fate smiled upon her one day when she stumbled upon a skateboard at her father’s workplace, Decathlon, where he worked as a security guard.
Most afternoons, she would visit the sports store to deliver her father’s lunch box. Intrigued by this new piece of equipment, 12-year-old Shraddha began honing her skateboarding skills with basic training from the store employees. Thus began her routine of delivering her father’s lunch, followed by dedicated training.
A pivotal moment in her journey came when she crossed paths with her current coach, Swapnil Magare, during a skateboarding workshop at the store. Impressed by her burgeoning skills, Magare took her under his wing and commenced regular training sessions.
Although Shraddha initially faced reservations from her family regarding her involvement in sports, her exceptional talent shone through at the Jugaad International Skateboarding Competition in Bengaluru in 2018. Overcoming her initial trepidation and homesickness, she managed to clinch the bronze medal, propelling her into the limelight and opening doors to opportunities in advertisements and film.
From featuring in television commercials for renowned brands to securing a role in the 2021 film ‘Skater Girl,’ Shraddha’s unwavering dedication to skateboarding has brought her remarkable success.
Her recent triumph at the National Games stands as a testament to her determination to continue striving for excellence, with her ultimate goal set on achieving an Olympic medal.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The betterindia
