From Village Dream to Olympic Hope: Ajay Singh Shekhawat's Inspiring Journey

Jhunjhunu: Ajay Singh Shekhawat, a young weightlifter from a small village in Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, has made the country proud by winning numerous international and national medals. His journey began when he was just 9 years old, and he has been living away from home to pursue his passion for weightlifting.

Ajay was selected under the "Catch Them Young" scheme when he was just 9 years old. Since then, he has been living away from home, dedicating himself to the sport. Despite facing several challenges, including injuries, Ajay has never given up. He even won a gold medal in an international competition on the day of his sister's wedding, presenting it to her as a gift.

Awards and Achievements

Ajay has won a total of 58 medals, including 11 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal at the international level. At the national level, he has won 14 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal. He has also won 9 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal in the Army Services Tournament and 15 gold medals at the state level.

Ajay has been honoured with the Maharana Pratap Award, the highest sports award in Rajasthan, and his mother, Ummed Kanwar, has been awarded the Veer Jeejabai Award for her son's achievements in the field of sports.

Records

In the New Zealand Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship, Ajay created a record by lifting a total of 338 kg (148 kg in snatch and 190 kg in clean and jerk) in the 81 kg weight category, winning a gold medal.

Mission Olympic

Currently, Ajay is undergoing training at the Army Sports Institute in Pune under the guidance of Colonel Devraj Gill and coaches. His ultimate goal is to represent India in the Olympics and bring glory to the country.