Manikandan Kumar wins silver medal in paraclimbing World Cup

Manikandan Kumar (L) at the victory podium

Indian paraclimber Manikandan Kumar has made the country proud once again – this time by clinching the silver medal at the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) World Cup in Chamonix, France. He finished second in the Men Neurological physical disability category.

He was pipped to the top spot by local boy Mathieu Besnard while Dave Bowes completed the podium.

The 29-year-old Indian coul not hide his happiness at performing in front of 2,000+ people at the event. He said that it was “one of the best competition so far in Chamonix” for him.

He expressed on his official facebook account that he tried his best and gave one of his best performances despite falling 5 holds short of top spot. Despite Frenchman Besnard taking the title, the large crowd that had gathered to witness the spectacle had to take notice and applaud the Indian’s efforts.

He thanked the organising bodies for conducting the competition, which he described as the “best atmosphere for climbing” before mentioning that he will be competing there again.

Coming from a poor background, Manikandan has had a tough time keeping his passion alive despite his disability. However, he has been supported throughout his career and medals have flowed consistently and this silver medal, which he dedicated to the people who have been by his side, is one of many in this climber’s collection.

Labelling this win as a wonderful moment for the entire country, he promised to continue giving his best.

Here is his post on Facebook after winning the silver medal:

It was an incredible finals and I'm not finding the words to describe the competition,but to be honest I was very much...

Posted by Manikandan Kumar on Sunday, 12 July 2015