Young Athlete from Uttarkashi Joins India’s Rugby Team
Dehradun/Uttarkashi: Mahak Chauhan, a 20-year-old from the small village of Bhadrasu in Uttarkashi, is making waves in the sports world by becoming the first player from Uttarkhand to join India’s senior national women’s rugby team. She will represent India at the Central and South Asia 7s Rugby Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from May 16 to 17.
Mahak’s journey into rugby began unexpectedly in 2023. She accompanied a friend to a trial in Roorkee, thinking it was for a running race, unaware that it was organized by the state rugby association. Prior to this, she had been focused on track and field events, having participated in school competitions since the third grade. To enhance her training, she moved to Dehradun, where she practiced diligently.
Her father, Arvendra Singh Chauhan, who teaches at a local primary school, shared that Mahak has always shown great potential in sports. “She started competing in track-and-field events during her school years and earned numerous awards. When she reached class 9, she expressed her desire to move to Dehradun for better training opportunities,” he said.
The unexpected trial in Roorkee turned out to be a turning point for Mahak. “She didn’t even realize it was a rugby trial,” her father explained. After her impressive performance drew attention, including from the state’s rugby coach, Mahak was encouraged to explore this new sport.
Initially unfamiliar with rugby, Mahak later called her family to share the exciting news of her selection in the state rugby team. “It was quite new for us as a family, but she quickly adapted and even became the captain of the Uttarakhand U-18 girls’ rugby team. It feels like luck played a big role in her journey,” he added, expressing unwavering support for her athletic aspirations.
Ayush Saini, the treasurer of the Uttarakhand Rugby Association and the state team’s coach, praised Mahak’s dedication and discipline. “She started her training on the sandy riverbed in Roorkee, and now she’s representing India at the senior level. This is an inspiring moment for all of Uttarakhand,” he remarked.
As Mahak gets ready for her debut on the national stage, her story stands as a testament to determination and the unexpected paths that can lead to success in sports.
