22 February,2010 11:58 AM IST | | Anthony D'Souza
Vinod Rawat lost his left leg when a truck knocked him down while on his way to school. He was six then. Since then, Rawat has faced many hardships, but his disability (he has an artificial foot) has not stopped him from participating in different sports like rock climbing, bike racing, motor sports, and also running in the Mumbai marathon for seven consecutive years.
Yesterday, he made his presence felt at the BSA Hercules India Cyclothon and Being Human Tour De Mumbai event at Bandra Reclamation where he participated in the 24-km amateur ride.
"I borrowed a cycle from my friend, who did not hesitate to lend me his bike when I told him I was taking part in the Mumbai Cyclothon. I have been riding from Vashi to Panvel daily to train for this event, said the New Mumbai-based Rawat.
Rawat (35) was representing the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) as the sole physically challenged individual in the event. "It doesn't matter who you are or where you come fromu00a0-- whether you're rich or poor. If you wish to achieve anything you can do so. You must have faith in your self. Disability is a challenge and the battlefield is the mind," he said.
His positive attitude is refreshing, but it took years to develop. Rawat admitted getting into bad company in his youth. He was also frustrated when he kept missing out on opportunities because of his handicap. Armed with a better relationship with God, Rawat developed a positive attitude and is reaping his rewards.
