**Rakshitha and Simran, both visually impaired athletes, have made their mark in para athletics through determination, strategic partnerships with their guide runners, and unwavering support from their communities.**
**Against All Odds: The Journey of India's Blind Athletes and Their Guides**
**Against All Odds: The Journey of India's Blind Athletes and Their Guides**
**A look at the inspiring stories of Rakshitha Raju and Simran Sharma, two blind Indian athletes who defy societal expectations with the support of their guide runners.**
In a heartening tale of perseverance, blind Indian athletes Rakshitha Raju and Simran Sharma share their struggles and triumphs both on and off the track. Growing up in a remote village, 24-year-old Rakshitha faced discouraging remarks about her disability. However, her journey took a positive turn when a school sports teacher recognized her potential as an athlete. With the unique aid of a guide runner, she has become a prominent middle-distance para athlete, making history as the first blind Indian woman to compete in the 1500m at the Paralympics.
Her companion in this remarkable journey, guide runner Rahul Balakrishna, first noticed Rakshitha at the National Games when he was seeking to support aspiring para athletes after recovering from his own injuries. The pair have trained together for nearly eight years, achieving gold at the 2018 and 2023 Asian Games, and Rakshitha's remarkable accomplishment extended to competing in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Though they missed out on a medal in Paris, another visually impaired competitor, Simran Sharma, shone on the global stage. Simran, partially sighted, initially ran independently but later recognized the need for a guide after a misstep at the Tokyo Paralympics. She found a perfect match in Abhay Kumar, an 18-year-old sprinter, and together they navigated a challenging path that led to a bronze medal in the 200m at the 2024 Paralympics.
Despite their impressive feats and growing sponsorships, both athletes and their guides face uncertainties regarding long-term support and career opportunities. Guide runners currently do not receive salaries or structured careers, though they share in the glory of their athletes' achievements with medals and recognition. As Rakshitha and Simran prepare for future competitions, their journeys continue to inspire countless others facing their own challenges in sports and life, proving that with the right support and determination, barriers can be shattered.
