Indian Speed Climbers Joga Purty and Deepu Mallesh Ready for Asian Games

Indian speed climbers Joga Purty and Deepu Mallesh are gearing up for their debut at the Asian Games, where they will represent India in a sport that has only recently gained recognition on the international stage. The duo, with Joga at 19 and Deepu at 28, share their unique journeys into the world of sport climbing, a discipline that has been part of the Asian Games since 2018 and became an Olympic event during the Tokyo 2020 Games.

For Joga, her introduction to sport climbing came through curiosity. Accompanying her brother and friends to the Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF) Sport Climbing Academy in Jamshedpur, she was drawn to the sport after trying it out for the first time. A coach recognized her potential, encouraging her to return, which eventually led to her success, including breaking her own national record at the Asian Championships this year.

Deepu's journey began nearly two decades ago when a coach at his school suggested he try climbing. Since then, he has been active in the senior circuit, focusing solely on climbing and coaching young athletes. "My aim now is to compete at the highest level," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to the sport.

The Asian Games will feature three climbing events: lead, boulder, and speed, with individual medals awarded in each. Speed climbing is a particularly thrilling race format, where competitors ascend a 15-meter wall in head-to-head matches.

Athletes Embrace Pressure and Pride

As they prepare for the competition starting on September 29, both athletes acknowledge the pressure but focus on the excitement of competing on such a grand stage. Joga expressed pride in representing India, stating, "I feel proud that people of my country would be watching me." Deepu echoed her sentiments, emphasizing his focus on delivering his best performance without succumbing to nerves.

Despite being a small team, with only two climbers selected from an original squad of eight, they remain optimistic. They will compete with the support of just one coach, though they would have preferred additional resources like a physiotherapist. Deepu noted, "We can do it nevertheless. It is not that we specifically wanted it but had they been there, it would have been better."

Athlete Spotlights

Both climbers have faced challenges in pursuing their sport, particularly regarding facilities and support. Joga noted that while she had access to good training at TSAF, many talented climbers struggle due to a lack of resources. Deepu pointed out that climbing is gaining popularity in urban areas, but emphasized the need for better support structures to help athletes compete internationally.

The sport has garnered attention, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognizing its potential. As they look to the future, both athletes agree that increased competitive exposure and access to facilities are crucial for the growth of climbing in India. With six climbing medals up for grabs at the upcoming Los Angeles Games, the prospects for Indian climbers are bright, provided they receive the necessary support to excel.