Supriya

When I was just 8-9 years old, we were handed out a pamphlet of a martial arts form called Wushu in school and I got instantly interested in taking part in it. I became attracted to the artistic display of the game and devoted myself in learning and performing it. As I had to balance between my studies at school and my practice sessions, being self-disciplined came at a very early age. When I was in class 5th , I was asked to change my school and so I had to go to the stadium for my martial arts practice. I would wake up early in the morning, cycle for 3-4kms back and forth, practice, and then would leave for school. I started out participating in Sanshou, a part of Wushu, at a sub-junior level, and in 2007 I won my first gold at the Wushu National Championship. Winning this championship encouraged me and little did I know, it was just the start. I went on to win championships in 2008 and 2009 as well in national tournaments. Winning national medals at such a young age gave me a thrill and I practiced hard to always come out better than the last time. In 2010, I took part in the national tournament that was held in Chennai. Traveling from my home state to Chennai was hectic and I couldn’t get ample time to warm up before going into the ring. One wrong move during the fight led to an injury in my ankle. Somehow, I finished the game and went to the hospital for a check-up. My parents also became cornered and I took a break for one year. In 2011, I re-started with Taolu, another part of Wushu. I received bronze in the national championship at a sub-junior level in Jammu.