Fiji-born Varun Vimlesh Lal, an Australian powerlifter, has embarked on a remarkable journey that transcends the realm of weightlifting; it embodies the pursuit of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit. On November 15, he proudly represented Australia, securing a commendable third place in the 125kg category at the World Powerlifting Championships in the United States, where athletes from Egypt and the USA took home the gold and silver medals, respectively.
Now residing in Park Ridge, Brisbane, Lal shares his inspiring narrative, tracing his roots back to Navau, Ba, where he grew up in a humble farming community. His parents, dedicated sugarcane farmers, worked tirelessly to provide for their family, instilling values of hard work and perseverance in Lal, which have guided him throughout his life.
Motivated by his dreams of a brighter future, Lal moved to Australia to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering. Despite the challenges of relocating alone, he found invaluable support from his brother Rajneel and sister-in-law Vennita, who helped him acclimate to their new environment.
Lal’s journey in powerlifting began just a year ago when he joined a local team. Remarkably, within nine months, he was selected to represent Australia under the CAPO federation during the prestigious championships in the USA. He expressed his ambition to lift between 230 to 240 kg, highlighting the pride he feels in representing his country and his farming community in Fiji.
However, the path hasn’t always been smooth; upon arriving in Australia, Lal faced difficulties meeting the local standards of mechanical engineering due to his previous education. Thankfully, his coworkers Don and Dan offered their support, helping him to navigate the transition and eventually secure his current job as a mechanical technician at an ice rink—a situation he never imagined possible.
In a recent twist, Lal’s father suffered a serious accident back in Fiji just two weeks prior to the championship. Though his father is recovering, Lal expressed the emotional struggle of preparing for the competition without him by his side. “He’s the reason I am here, pursuing my dreams, and I will lift for him in the upcoming event,” Lal stated, emphasizing the deep connection he shares with his family.
Lal views his world debut as a chance to not only compete but also to break barriers, proving that someone from a small Indo-Fijian farming background can reach global heights. He is dedicated to inspiring the youth in the Pacific, encouraging them that dreams are within their reach, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
He also expressed gratitude for the support from his partner, Keisha, who has been a pillar of strength throughout his challenges, reinforcing that determination and resilience can lead to extraordinary achievements.
In summary, Varun Vimlesh Lal’s journey as a powerlifter serves as a powerful testament to perseverance, familial love, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. His story not only inspires others in the Pacific but also sends a hopeful message that through hard work and determination, anything is possible.
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