New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – At just 17 years old, Sarungbam Athouba Meitei has etched his name in history with an extraordinary double triumph at the National Games. The young triathlete from Singjamei Chingamathak, a small locality in Imphal, bagged two gold medals—first in the men’s individual triathlon and then in the men’s individual duathlon.
His achievements, though remarkable, came as a surprise to even himself. "It was unexpected," Athouba admitted, his voice filled with emotion. "I didn’t even think I would win a medal at all."
But behind his modesty lies years of grueling preparation—swimming through the biting cold waters of Manipur, cycling across its hilly terrains, and pushing himself to exhaustion in long-distance runs. His twin victories not only highlight his incredible endurance but also reflect the unwavering support of his family, who have been instrumental in his journey.
A Family Rooted in Sports
Born to Sarungbam Jiten Meitei, a contractor and former college football player, and a homemaker mother, Athouba was raised in a household that valued sports. His elder sister, Sarungbam Martina, an international swimmer, played a crucial role in introducing him to competitive swimming."My didi was an international swimmer. She has a lot of experience, which helped me a lot," he shared.
It was his father, however, who encouraged him to transition into the triathlon. "My father said to me, ‘Your swimming is good. Triathlon will suit you. So, start cycling.’ He took a lot of interest in my sports journey and motivated me a lot."
Even as Athouba competed at the National Games, his father chose to stay home, too anxious to watch but eager for his son to make history. "Papa didn’t travel for the Games because he said he couldn’t bear to watch if something went wrong, but he wanted me to create history," the teenager revealed.
Dominating the National Games
Athouba’s road to victory was paved with sheer perseverance and unbreakable determination. In the triathlon—a grueling endurance event comprising swimming, cycling, and running—he kept a strong pace in the swimming segment before making his decisive move in the cycling leg. His speed and strategy saw him pull ahead, and in the final stretch, he powered through with a sprint to secure his first gold.His momentum carried into the duathlon (cycling and running), where he executed a flawless transition between disciplines. His endurance and tactical brilliance allowed him to dominate the race, crossing the finish line first for his second gold.
A Future Full of Promise
Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Physical Education at the National Sports University, Athouba is not alone in his success. The university also produced another National Games gold medallist from Manipur, Yumlembam Echantombi Devi, who triumphed in the women’s Qiangshu wushu event. Their victories have bolstered Manipur’s medal tally to 25, including 11 golds.As the young athlete reflected on his achievement, he recalled an emotional moment with his mother. "My mum started crying when I won the medals. She is here with my brother," he said. His father, however, remained focused on what lay ahead. "He told me, ‘Good, good, you’ve made history, but you still have swimming left. Focus on that.’"
Athouba is now gearing up for the final of the 200-meter individual medley event in swimming, hoping to add yet another accolade to his growing legacy. Despite the challenges, including training in Manipur’s frigid waters, his resilience continues to drive him forward.
With his stunning performances, Sarungbam Athouba Meitei has not just won gold medals—he has announced his arrival as one of India’s most promising young athletes.
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