The promise, the pain and the gold: Asmita Dey's journey to CWG history
Asmita Dey became the first Indian judoka to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal after overcoming a personal tragedy and a significant ankle injury. Her victory is attributed to the support of her coach, Yashapal Solanki, who stepped in as a mentor following the death of her father.
Why it matters
This story highlights a significant milestone in Indian sports history and the personal resilience required to compete at an elite level.
NEW DELHI: As Asmita Dey walked into SEC Hall 4 for the women's 48kg judo final at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, she looked around for one familiar face. Standing there was her coach, Yashapal Solanki.Minutes later, Asmita defeated Canada's Heidi Quach by yuko to become the first Indian judoka to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal. She came from behind to force the contest into Golden Score - judo's version of sudden-death extra time - before landing the decisive yuko to seal a historic victory. After the final, Asmita walked straight towards Solanki and hugged him. Both were in tears.Solanki was not Asmita's father. But after she lost her own father, he stepped into that role when she needed someone the most.A visibly emotional Asmita remembered both men after creating history. "Papa jaane se pehle keh gaye the ki tum apne sapne ko aage badhana.
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