Breaks World Record
Deepthi Jeevanji’s star continued to rise at the Para Athletic World Championship 2024 in Kobe, Japan. On May 20, 2024, she etched her name in history by setting a world record in the 400-meter T20 category, clocking an astonishing 55.06 seconds. This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record of 55.12 seconds held by American athlete Breanna Clark, securing her a spot in the Paris Paralympics.
Early Life and Background
Deepthi Jeevanji, a beacon of inspiration, was born on September 27, 2003, in the humble Kalleda village, Warangal district, Telangana. Her parents, Jeevanji Yadhagiri and Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi, were hardworking daily wage laborers, tending to a small half-acre agricultural plot and working on other farms.
Discovery and Training
Deepthi Jeevanji’s athletic prowess was first spotted by her Physical Education Teacher (PET) during her 9th grade in Warangal. This led to her introduction to coach Ramesh, who trains the Indian Junior team. With the backing of Pullela Gopichand, she underwent rigorous testing and certification at the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disability in Hyderabad, affirming her eligibility to compete as a para-athlete.
Rise to Prominence
In 2022, Deepthi Jeevanji joined the Indian team for the Hangzhou Asian Para Games. She excelled in her favorite event, the 400-meter T20 run, setting a new Asian Para record and Games record with a time of 56.69 seconds on October 24, 2023, winning gold. She triumphed over Thailand’s Orawan Kaising, who took silver, and Japan’s Niina Kanno, who won bronze.
Additional Competitions and Records
Before her world record, Deepthi had set an Asian Para Games record in 2023. Her achievements have not only brought glory to her name but also to the entire para-athletics community. She was also selected to compete in the 100 meters and 200 meters (Category F) at the 2024 World Paralympic Championships in Kobe. She qualified for the finals by setting a new Asian record with a time of 56.18 seconds. She secured a spot for the Paris 2024 Paralympics with a second-place finish in the 100 meters (Category F) at the Indian U20 Federation Cup at Chhotu Bhai Purani Sports Complex in Nadiad. Additionally, she won two gold medals at the All-India Inter-University Championships in Bhubaneshwar.
Conclusion
Deepthi Jeevanji’s journey from a small village in Telangana to the global stage of para-athletics is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. Her record-breaking performances and continued success serve as a beacon of inspiration for many aspiring athletes.