- Ahmedabad Racquet Academy para-athlete scripts inspiring comeback with gold and bronze medals
- Triumph at UTT Para Senior Table Tennis National Championships 2025-26 in Indore marks major milestone in her sporting journey
- Gujarat shines with 51 medals at the national meet hosted at Abhay Prashal Indoor Stadium
- From a life-altering accident to national podium, Darji’s decade-long resilience inspires para-sports community
NE SPORTS BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, MAR 8
In a powerful story of courage and sporting excellence, Shital Darji, a para-athlete from Ahmedabad Racquet Academy (ARA), clinched two medals at the prestigious UTT Para Senior Table Tennis National Championships 2025-26, held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh from February 26 to 28, 2026.
Competing against nearly 800 participants from across India, Darji delivered an impressive performance, securing:
• Gold Medal – Women’s Doubles 10
• Bronze Medal – Mixed Doubles 10
Her achievements contributed significantly to Gujarat’s dominant showing, with the state contingent finishing with 51 medals — including 4 Gold, 25 Silver and 22 Bronze medals.
A Journey Forged in Resilience
Darji’s remarkable success represents a decade-long journey marked by resilience and determination.
In 2011, a tragic railway accident resulted in the loss of both her legs. The years that followed brought immense personal challenges, including rebuilding her life and education after a divorce.
However, Darji discovered a new purpose when she took up table tennis in 2019, quickly progressing through competitive ranks and eventually representing India internationally.
Her story stands as a testament to the belief that limitations exist only in the mind.
Coach Applauds Her Mental Strength
Reflecting on her triumph, Nilay Vyas, Darji’s coach at Ahmedabad Racquet Academy, praised her unwavering dedication.
“Shital is a student of the game in the truest sense. Her success in Indore is not just about her technical skill, but her psychological fortitude. She trains with a level of focus that silences every obstacle. This Gold medal is a testament to the fact that hard work and a fearless spirit always create champions.”
Academy Celebrates a Role Model
Expressing pride in her achievement, Krinesh Patel, Director of Ahmedabad Racquet Academy, said Darji’s journey reflects the academy’s mission of nurturing inclusive sporting excellence.
“Shitalben’s journey is a powerful motivation for society. At ARA, we strive to provide a platform where talent meets opportunity, regardless of the odds. Seeing her stand on the national podium is a moment of immense pride for the entire academy. She embodies the resilience we aim to foster in every athlete.”
