In a moment of pride for Himachal Pradesh, 11-year-old Aakasa Sharma has etched her name in the annals of sports history by becoming the first girl from the state to participate in the prestigious Roller Skating Federation of India (RSFI) National Championship in inline speed skating.
Competing in the Sub-Junior Inline Speed Skating category, Aakasa carried the Himachal Pradesh flag high at the opening ceremony of the RSFI Nationals 2024 held in Mysuru. As the sole participant from the state, her presence on the national stage symbolises the growing aspirations and potential of young athletes in Himachal Pradesh.
“Being a one-person contingent, Aakasa held the Himachal Pradesh flag with pride, representing not just her talent but also the hopes and dreams of countless young skaters from Himachal Pradesh,” said her father Aashish Sharma.
Clinched spot for nationals at Baddi event
Aakasa’s journey to this achievement has been nothing short of inspiring. She clinched the Group Championship Trophy at the 1st Himachal Pradesh State Roller Skating Championship held at Baddi International School, securing her spot at the nationals. Overcoming challenges, including a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, she returned to the sport with unmatched determination.
Her rigorous training regime — beginning at 4 am on an international-level bend track — has paid dividends, with accolades that include two gold medals at the School Games Federation of India (SGFI) championship in Haryana and representation at RSFI Nationals in Chennai last year.
Proud moment for parents
Aakasa’s parents, Aashish Sharma, a vice-president at a multinational corporation, and Dr Anupama Mahajan, a research scientist pursuing a PhD, expressed immense pride in their daughter’s accomplishments.
“For us, as parents, this is more than a competition — it’s a testament to her grit, her passion and her unyielding belief in herself. Watching her walk with grace and power, all while carrying the weight of this immense honour, left us speechless. Aakasa’s journey is not just a personal victory, it’s a milestone for the entire sporting community of Himachal Pradesh,” they said.
Her coach, Chander Singhal, lauded her dedication and passion. “Aakasa’s commitment to the sport is unparalleled. She is a role model for aspiring skaters across the state,” he remarked.
As Aakasa skates for glory in Mysuru, her historic participation is already an achievement that inspires countless young athletes in Himachal Pradesh to pursue their dreams with grit and determination. “With the hopes of an entire state riding on her shoulders, Aakasa is not just a competitor but a beacon of pride and inspiration,” said her coach.
