Gold for Inclusion, Gold for Abhi: Telangana Skater Shines at Gurugram Camp

Gurugram, May 2026: In a moment that celebrated both sporting excellence and the power of inclusion, young athlete Abhi Chandra, who is on the autism spectrum, clinched a gold medal in the Special Category at the Short Track Speed Training Championship. The event was held as part of the Telangana Ice Skating Coaching Camp at iSKATE.

Organised by the Ice Skating Association of Telangana, the camp ran from April 27 to May 5, bringing together a group of promising young skaters for intensive training ahead of national competitions. Under the leadership of coach Raj Reddy and with guidance from national coach Ravi Dhillon, participants were trained not just in technique, but also in discipline, confidence, and teamwork.

Abhi’s achievement stands out not merely for the medal, but for the journey behind it. For neurodivergent individuals, progress often demands extraordinary focus, patience, and courage. Every step forward represents a significant personal milestone, making victories like this deeply meaningful. Abhi’s gold medal is therefore as much about resilience as it is about sporting success.

Throughout the camp, Abhi received consistent encouragement and hands-on support. Coaches ensured he felt comfortable and confident on the ice, while support staff, including Chanderbhan, worked closely with him during practice sessions. This collaborative effort helped create an environment where Abhi could perform to his potential without barriers.

Equally inspiring was the atmosphere fostered by fellow skaters and their families. The Telangana team demonstrated a spirit of inclusivity that went beyond competition. The rink transformed into a space where differences were respected and every child was encouraged to learn, fall, rise, and succeed at their own pace. It was this culture of empathy and encouragement that truly defined the camp.

Coach Raj Reddy and the team were widely appreciated for nurturing such an environment. Parents and participants alike highlighted how the experience extended beyond technical training, evolving into a shared journey of growth, acceptance, and mutual support. The sense of belonging created at the camp reinforced the idea that sports can be a powerful platform for inclusion.

The Ice Skating Association of India-affiliated Telangana body has been steadily building a strong talent pool, with notable performances at national-level competitions, including multiple podium finishes in 2026. Training camps like this one play a crucial role in preparing athletes, especially by providing exposure to professional facilities outside the state.

Abhi’s success is a reminder that with the right guidance, inclusive spaces, and emotional support, every child has the potential to shine. His gold medal symbolises more than victory—it reflects the extraordinary spirit that emerges when determination meets opportunity.

As the camp concluded, it left behind more than trained athletes; it created stories of courage, belonging, and hope—proving that true success lies not just in winning medals, but in building a community where everyone has a chance to succeed.

About the Ice Skating Association of Telangana (ISAT):
The Ice Skating Association of Telangana is a prominent and active state body affiliated with the Ice Skating Association of India. It is dedicated to training and promoting ice skating talent from Telangana, regularly sending athletes to national championships. The association has built a strong and expanding talent pool, with impressive performances in short-track speed skating, including multiple podium finishes in 2026. ISAT frequently conducts intensive training camps at professional rinks such as iSKATE in Gurugram to prepare its athletes. Guided by experienced officials and coaches, including key contributors like Jitender Kumar and Mohammad Abdul Quadeer, the association continues to nurture young talent and expand opportunities for aspiring skaters across the state.

Team Maverick.