Mark Dharmai, a resilient Paralympic athlete, defied all odds and etched his name in history as the first Indian to claim a gold medal in boccia (doubles) at the World Dwarf Games held in Germany.
The tenacious resident of Bandra also went on to secure four more medals during the same tournament, which featured 505 athletes representing 22 different countries.
Honorary Lifetime Membership at Bandra Gymkhana
In recognition of his inspiring success, Bandra Gymkhana, where Dharmai regularly practices, has bestowed upon him an honorary lifetime membership.
Who is Mark Dharmai?
Mark Dharmai’s journey into sports began at a young age. He embarked on his remarkable journey by winning a bronze medal in the 400-meter race at the 2004 Paralympic Games. Over the years, he has achieved numerous milestones, including a gold medal in the 200-meter race at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and a silver medal in the 4×400-meter relay at the 2012 London Paralympics.
Dharmai’s Inspirational Story
Beyond his remarkable victories, Dharmai’s story is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment in overcoming physical challenges. His journey has been marked by various obstacles, including the postponement of the World Dwarf Games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, Dharmai embraced physiotherapy and yoga to maintain his physical and mental fitness.
Expressing his elation over his success and the recognition from Bandra Gymkhana, Dharmai exclaimed, “The gymkhana’s lifetime honorary membership will significantly support my career, enabling me to fully concentrate on my game without the need for membership renewals. The gymkhana provides high-quality wood courts, and its members are incredibly supportive. I engage in daily badminton matches with gymkhana players and also coach other para-athletes.”
