Fiji-born Varun Vimlesh Lal, an Australian powerlifter, is on a mission to lift not only weights but also the hopes and aspirations of those around him. On November 15, he proudly secured a third-place finish in the 125kg category at the World Powerlifting Championships held in the United States. He achieved this remarkable feat representing Australia, with athletes from Egypt and the USA taking home the gold and silver medals, respectively.
Now residing in Park Ridge, Brisbane, Lal’s journey from his early life in Ba to the competitive world of powerlifting serves as inspiration, particularly for the youth of the Pacific Islands. Growing up in Navau, Ba, Lal witnessed firsthand the tireless work of his parents, who were sugarcane farmers. His father’s dedication—spending long hours in the sun to provide for the family—instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance.
With ambitions beyond his humble beginnings, Lal moved to Australia to study Civil Engineering. He described the challenges of adapting to life in a new country, yet he credits his brother Rajneel Prakash and sister-in-law Vennita for their unwavering support during this transition.
His powerlifting journey began just a year ago when he joined a team and quickly ascended to representing Australia under the CAPO federation. Lal has set his sights on achieving a deadlift of 230-240 kg, reflecting his commitment to his sport and pride in representing Australia, despite his roots in a small farming community.
Lal’s professional path was challenging at first, as his mechanical engineering qualifications did not meet Australian standards. However, with the guidance of supportive colleagues, he now works as a mechanical technician in an ice rink, a job he never imagined he would have.
Recently, Lal faced another challenge when his father had a serious accident in Fiji. Despite the physical distance, Lal’s father remains a significant source of motivation for him. “I’ll lift for him in the upcoming event,” Lal expressed, emphasizing that his father’s spirit is always with him.
His debut on the world stage isn’t just about sports; it’s about breaking barriers and proving that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness. Lal aims to inspire young people in the Pacific to chase their dreams and overcome obstacles.
Additionally, he acknowledges the importance of emotional support from his partner, Keisha, who has been by his side throughout this journey, helping him stay strong amidst personal and professional challenges.
In summary, Lal’s story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. His journey from the farming fields of Fiji to the international powerlifting arena serves as an encouraging narrative, inspiring others to pursue their passions and strive for excellence, regardless of the difficulties they may face. Hope remains alive in his message—dreams can be realized through hard work and dedication.
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