An Inline Speed Skater and state medalist, S G Miithun is currently practicing under his coach Sathya Murthy at Svastika Speed Skating Academy (SSSA) in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. He started skating when he was six years old, inspired by his senior skaters. Miithun has participated in over 100 tournaments, won several medals and represented Tamil Nadu in the national meet. He is grateful to his coaches, school principal, and PT teachers for their support and motivation.

The Initiation

Miithun, who is currently studying in 11th grade at Maharishi Vidya Mandir School in Coimbatore, began skating at the age of six with his school's seniors and co-skaters. His senior skaters inspired him to pursue the sport. He says skating is also a pleasant method to keep your body flexible and strong.

Gurus & Role Models

S G Miithun began learning skating from Tanishka sir and learnt the fundamentals of the sport before moving to Rahul's Academy of Roller Skating (RARS), managed by Rahul Pandian, who provided professional training to him. Finally, he approached Coach Sathya Murthy, under whom he is presently training at Svastika Speed Skating Academy (SSSA). He is presently preparing for 10 km and 15 km races under the supervision of his coaches, and practices every day, which is the only way to prevent fear while participating in district, state and national level contests. Miithun looks up to Neeraj Chopra and Milkha Singh, who won medals for India in the Asian Games. He also admires their dedication and courage in competing without fear.

The Talent

S G Miithun explains that skates may be divided into two types: squared and inline. Inline skates feature two types of frames: hi-lo and normal, with the normal having three wheels and the other having four. The wheels can have different sizes: 100 mm and 110 mm. He goes on to explain that there are two types of skating races: short and long. Short races include 100m, 500m, and 1000m, whilst lengthy races include 10km, 15km, and more. He discusses the benefits of skating, such as how it is a fun and easy method to keep our bodies fit. It also helps to improve physical and mental wellbeing and also aids in the prevention of a variety of disorders, including cardiac attacks.

Achievements

Miithun has represented Tamil Nadu in the National Meet and won several state and district medals in skating. He has participated in almost 100 competitions to date.

A Bit More

Miithun thanks his coaches, school principal, and PT teachers for their encouragement and drive. The saying "Don't stop when it hurts, stop when it's done" is very inspiring and motivating to him. He also sends the same lesson to the children of future generations. He tells the other young talents to never give up and to believe in themselves. He believes that we should constantly appreciate what life has to offer and not give up hope in the face of failure. Keep trying, and you'll succeed one day, says Miithun. Miithun always planned his academics and other activities in a proper way so that he could skate in the morning and study in the evening, or vice versa. He also feels that being mentally and physically prepared is highly crucial for succeeding in any sport.