Fiji-born Australian powerlifter Varun Vimlesh Lal’s story transcends the sport itself; it’s a testament to resilience, aspirations, and familial dedication. On November 15, he proudly represented Australia, securing third place in the 125kg category at the World Powerlifting Championships held in the United States. The gold and silver medals were earned by athletes from Egypt and the USA, respectively.
Now residing in Park Ridge, Brisbane, Lal shares an inspiring narrative that traces back to his beginnings in Ba, aiming to motivate others, especially the youth in the Pacific. Growing up in Navau, Ba, a community of sugarcane farmers, Lal’s childhood was shaped by the relentless work of his parents, especially his father, who labored for long hours in the sun to provide his children with opportunities for a brighter future.
Lal’s journey to Australia came with its challenges, including learning to navigate life in a new country while pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. Thankfully, he found support from his brother, Rajneel Prakash, and sister-in-law, Vennita Prakash, who helped him adjust and thrive in his new environment.
His passion for powerlifting emerged in Australia, and within just nine months of joining a powerlifting team, he earned the chance to compete on an international stage. Lal aspires to deadlift between 230-240 kg, a goal that reflects not only his ambition but also pride in representing Australia as an athlete from his farming roots in Fiji.
Despite setbacks in his professional journey, such as challenges meeting Australian engineering standards, Lal received invaluable support from his colleagues, Don and Dan. Currently, he works as a mechanical technician at an ice rink, a profession that would have seemed improbable during his upbringing in Fiji.
However, Lal’s journey took a difficult turn two weeks ago when his father faced a serious accident back in Fiji. While his father is on the road to recovery, Lal finds it hard to prepare for competitions without his father’s physical presence. He dedicates his upcoming efforts to his father, who has been instrumental in his pursuit of dreams.
Lal emphasizes that this debut at the world stage goes beyond sports; it symbolizes breaking barriers and proving that even those from small, humble backgrounds can achieve greatness. Although his father cannot attend the competition, Lal carries him in his heart, drawing motivation from his father’s sacrifices.
He also expresses gratitude towards his partner, Keisha, who has been his steadfast emotional support throughout this challenging journey. Lal believes that determination and hard work can lead to extraordinary accomplishments despite adversity, and he hopes to inspire young people in the Pacific to chase their dreams and overcome obstacles.
This story not only highlights Lal’s achievements in powerlifting but also inspires many to embrace their challenges with perseverance and hope.
In summary, Varun Vimlesh Lal’s journey from a small farming community in Fiji to an international powerlifting stage is a powerful reminder of dedication, family support, and the belief that anyone can rise above their circumstances to achieve great things.
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