It was a proud moment for Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park when one of its own — Anika Gupta, a PYP-4 (class IV) student — won the Bronze medal in the Under-10 Girls Long Jump category at the prestigious SFA Championship. This accomplishment stands as a testament to Anika’s unwavering dedication and passion for sports.
The SFA Championship, a renowned platform for young athletes, witnessed Anika’s excellent performance, bringing pride not only to her but also to her school and family. Competing with some of the most promising young athletes, Anika’s achievement has inspired her peers, setting a high standard of hard work and perseverance.
This Bronze win in the long jump adds to Apeejay School International’s (ASI) legacy of fostering young talent and supporting holistic development through academics and sports. The school community, teachers, and fellow students are proud of Anika’s success and are confident that this is only the beginning of her promising athletic journey.
Speaking about her achiever, Anika’s enthusiasm and determination shone through. Her achievement is a source of great pride for both her and her school.
“I got interested in the long jump at my previous school. I discovered I had a natural aptitude for it. I continued with my passion when I joined ASI. While I have had no formal training, I developed the skills primarily independently. I just run around in my house to keep myself fit,” she shared.
The SFA Championship Experience
The championship itself was intense, Anika said. “There were two rounds; there was a sand pit I had to jump. However, I can’t recall the exact distance of my jumps. Despite one foul, my performance secured me a spot on the podium and won me the Bronze,” Anika stated and added that her parents offered crucial support.
“They provided me with the appropriate athletic gear, including comfortable running shoes and clothing to help me perform at my best. It also ensured that my legs wouldn’t get tired. I am grateful to them for their support, which was essential in my journey to the medal,” she said.
She learnt about this competition in school when a teacher announced it in the AV room. “At present, I want to pursue athletics as a hobby. I am still exploring my interests and haven’t yet decided on future career paths. For now, I will continue to participate in sports as and when opportunities arise,” Anika explained.
Her story is an inspiring reminder of the potential young athletes possess and the importance of encouragement and self-belief.