Varun Vimlesh Lal, a powerlifter originally from Fiji, is making waves in the sport while embodying the spirit of perseverance and hope. Recently, Lal showcased his exceptional talents by securing third place in the 125kg weight class at the World Powerlifting Championships held in the United States on November 15. The competition saw Egypt and the USA take home the gold and silver medals respectively.
Now residing in Park Ridge, Brisbane, Lal has an inspiring backstory that traces its roots back to the farming community of Ba, Fiji. His parents worked tirelessly as sugarcane farmers, and his father’s dedication—often laboring under the sun for 12 hours a day—instilled a strong work ethic in Lal that has influenced his journey. This solid foundation fueled his dreams of a better life, ultimately leading him to Australia to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering.
The transition wasn’t easy; he faced numerous challenges, including adapting to life in a foreign country without his family. However, with the steadfast support of his brother, Rajneel Prakash, and sister-in-law, Vennita Prakash, he navigated through these hurdles. Remarkably, his journey took an exciting turn when he joined a powerlifting team just a year ago, and within months, he earned the honor of representing Australia in international competition.
Lal has set ambitious goals for himself, aiming to deadlift between 230-240 kg. He expresses pride in representing Australia despite his humble beginnings in Fiji, and he is determined to push through the challenges ahead. His professional life has also seen growth; although he initially faced difficulties meeting Australian engineering standards, the encouragement from his colleagues, Don and Dan, has helped him thrive in his role as a mechanical technician at an ice rink.
Recently, Lal faced a personal challenge when his father suffered a serious accident in Fiji. Despite this setback, he remains motivated to succeed in his powerlifting career, dedicating his upcoming performances to his father’s spirit and support. He views this competition as not just a sporting event, but a chance to break barriers and inspire youth, particularly those from similar backgrounds.
Lal’s message is one of resilience: with determination and hard work, it’s possible to achieve dreams regardless of circumstance. He aims to motivate young people in the Pacific, proving that success is attainable despite obstacles. His emotional gratitude extends to his partner, Keisha, for being his steadfast support throughout this journey.
This story inspires hope and serves as a reminder that courage and perseverance can pave the way for incredible accomplishments, even in the face of adversity. Varun Vimlesh Lal’s journey demonstrates that dreams can be lifted alongside weights, and that anyone, regardless of their origin, can shine on the global stage.
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