“I was just four when I first stepped onto a pair of skates. Back then, I didn’t know what artistic skating was – it just felt like freedom on wheels. Over time, that freedom became my life’s passion. Now in Class 12, skating has been my world for over 13 years. It’s taught me discipline, focus, and how to express emotion through movement.

There are many forms of skating – speed, roller hockey, and artistic – each unique in its own way. I chose artistic skating because it’s where athleticism meets art. Every routine tells a story through rhythm, jumps, spins, and grace.

So far, I’ve participated in several district, state, national, and international championships, winning over 120 medals. Each one carries a story of effort, failure, and perseverance. One of my proudest moments was winning bronze at the 2022 National Games in Ahmedabad at just 14, becoming the second youngest from India to do so.

Later, I won gold and silver at the Asian Championship in China, followed by three golds and a silver at the 2025 Taiwan Artistic Roller Skating Championship. Most recently, I claimed gold at the 2025 Asian Championship in South Korea – a dream realized through years of practice.

My journey truly began in 2016 when, at just six, I won four gold medals at the 12th National Ice Skating Championship in Gulmarg. Since then, the rink has been my second home. The path hasn’t been easy – injuries and setbacks often tested my patience and willpower. But with the support of my parents and twin sister, I kept going. Every medal I’ve earned belongs to them too.

Training under Anup Kumar Yama and Amar Nag Yama sir has shaped me deeply. Their artistry and discipline remind me that skating is not just about movement – it’s about storytelling. Artistic skating deserves more recognition in India. It’s a sport that blends strength and creativity in the most beautiful way.

My dream is to represent India at the World Championships and World Games, and to make Hyderabad proud. For me, skating isn’t just a sport – it’s an art, a passion, and a lifelong journey. The real victory lies not just in winning, but in never giving up on what you love.”

• Juhith Chalamcharla, Athelete