Simran Sharma, India’s reigning world champion in the women’s 100m – T12, has secured her place in the final at the Paris Paralympics. Accompanied by her guide Abhay Singh, the 24-year-old finished second in semifinal 2 with a time of 12.33 seconds at the Stade de France on Thursday.
Simran’s journey to the final was not without its challenges. Born prematurely, she spent the first 10 weeks of her life in an incubator, where it was discovered that she had visual impairment. Despite the obstacles, Simran’s determination and resilience have propelled her to the pinnacle of her sport.
Coached by her husband Gajendra Singh, an Army Service Corps officer, Simran trains at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. Her hard work and dedication have paid off, as she has consistently dominated the National Championship and Indian Open in both the 100m and 200m since 2022.
Simran’s success on the international stage is equally impressive. She won two silver medals at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou last year and clinched the T12 200m gold in style at the World Championships in Japan in June. Her performance at the Paris Paralympics is a testament to her unwavering spirit and the support of her team.
In the semifinal, Simran finished behind Katrin Mueller-Rottgardt of Germany, who clocked 12.26 seconds. Omara Durand of Cuba topped the first semifinal with a time of 12.01 seconds. As per the rules, the first-placed runner in each semifinal and the next two fastest advanced to the final. Simran’s time of 12.33 seconds was the third fastest overall, securing her a spot in the final.
Simran’s journey from being mocked for her visual impairment to winning gold at the World Para Athletics Championships and now reaching the Paralympics final is an inspiration to all. Her story is a reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible.
