High jumper H N Girisha won India its first medal at the London Paralympics by winning a silver medal, says a report in The Times of India.
Girisha cleared a career-best height of 1.74m to claim the medal.
"It is a dream come true. I was in New Delhi to meet the President when Sushil Kumar won the silver medal and his performance motivated me. In fact, I felt motivated whenever I saw an athlete winning a medal at the Olympics”, said Girisha.
“I knew I could win a medal if I managed my best. The training at the SAI centre helped me a lot and Sahana also had a big role - she called me last night to give me tips”, he added.
His father, Nageraje was particularly proud on his son’s achievement. “I never expected my son could do this. When he was a kid, the doctor told me he needed a surgery to correct his disability but I got scared and refused. It was also because we couldn't afford the costs of the operation. But now I know I made a huge mistake. And look at him, he has made proud with his achievement”, he said.
“We couldn't support him well as we are repaying a bank loan of Rs 3.50 lakh taken for my daughter's marriage and for building a new house. At times we even struggled to make ends meet but I can forget all that”, said Nageraje.