Can Diksha Yadav's Double Gold at KIBG 2025 Inspire Future Champions?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In an impressive display of skill, Maharashtra's Diksha Yadav secured double gold medals in open sea swimming at the Khelo India Beach Games. As she aims for international recognition, her story is one of passion and dedication. Join us as we explore her journey and the inspiring achievements of young athletes.
Key Takeaways
- Diksha Yadav won two gold medals in open sea swimming.
- The events were held at Ghoghla Beach, Diu.
- She aims for international competition and success.
- Drupad Ramakrishna also excelled, winning gold in the men's event.
- Both athletes demonstrate the potential of young sports talent in India.
Diu, May 22 (NationPress) Maharashtra’s Diksha Yadav continued to impress at the inaugural Khelo India Beach Games, capturing both gold medals available in the Open Sea Swimming event. The 19-year-old swimmer from Maharashtra secured the top spot in both the 10km and 5km races held at Ghoghla Beach on Thursday morning. In the men's 5km open swim, Karnataka’s Drupad Ramakrishna also claimed gold.
Diksha, who has developed a passion for long-distance swimming, began her journey in the sport during her 10th grade, training at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune. This marks her second year in open water swimming, inspired by the renowned American swimmer Katie Ledecky.
"Winning double gold at KIBG 2025 is a testament to the dedication I’ve shown in my training leading up to this moment," Diksha stated after her 5km triumph on Thursday morning, clocking a time of 1 hour, 10 minutes, and 12 seconds.
This was her inaugural challenge in the Arabian Sea. "The conditions were favorable and there were not many challenges. This Khelo India platform will be immensely beneficial for my future goals. My focus now is on securing international selection this year and earning a medal for India at the World Championship in the open swimming category," Diksha elaborated.
In the men's 5km open swim, Drupad Ramakrishna achieved a time of 1 hour, 6 minutes, and 46 seconds to take home the gold. The 10th grader is ambitious, viewing this medal as just a stepping stone in his career.
"I have numerous competitions ahead and many more years to excel. I am eager for more medals. At the Basavanagudi aquatic centre in Bangalore, we train diligently for 1-2 hours to adapt to sea swimming, so the difference here is minimal—just a few more waves," the 15-year-old Drupad explained.
Results:
5km open
Men: 1. Drupad Ramakrishna (Karnataka) 1:06:46; 2. Gundu Vishnu Vardhan (Telangana) 1:06:58; 3. Hemanth A (Tamil Nadu) 1:07:41
Women: 1. Diksha Yadav (Maharashtra) 1:10:12; 2. Purva Gawade (Maharashtra) 1:10:25; 3. Aasra R Sudhir (Karnataka) 1:10:29
Point of View
I find Diksha Yadav's achievements at the Khelo India Beach Games to be a powerful representation of the potential within our young athletes. Her dedication not only exemplifies personal ambition but also showcases the growing opportunities for sports in India. It is crucial for us to support such initiatives that foster talent and inspire the next generation.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What events did Diksha Yadav win at KIBG 2025?
Diksha Yadav won gold medals in both the 10km and 5km open sea swimming events.
Who won the gold medal in the men's 5km swim?
Drupad Ramakrishna from Karnataka secured the gold medal in the men's 5km open swim.
Where did the Khelo India Beach Games take place?
The Khelo India Beach Games were held at Ghoghla Beach in Diu.
What is Diksha's goal for the future?
Diksha aims to gain international selection this year and win a medal for India at the World Championship in open swimming.
How long has Diksha been training in swimming?
Diksha has been training in swimming since she was in 10th grade, marking two years in open water swimming.
