Some stories are not just about sports, they become examples of fighting with life. The story of 18 year old young weightlifter Isak Malsawmtluanga from Mizoram is also similar, where pain, struggle and hope go together. After losing her parents at a young age, when life seemed to be at a standstill, this player took charge of herself and has now created a new identity for the country by winning a gold medal.

The family broke up before the age of 16

The biggest shock in Isak's life came when his father died in a road accident in 2018. In the same year he started weightlifting. He had not yet recovered from this pain when his mother died due to cancer in 2024. Two consecutive big shocks had broken this young player from within. Isaac himself admits that there came a time when he had made up his mind to leave the game.

Uncle and coach became the biggest support

His uncle and childhood coach did not abandon him in difficult times. The coach explained to him that only sports could shape his future, while his uncle and aunt took him under their wing and helped him continue both his studies and training. His uncle and aunt, living in a small area of ​​Aizawl, live a simple life, but they never let Isak's dreams go short.

Didn't give up despite injury

Just when everything was slowly getting back on track, another challenge emerged. Isaac suffered a back injury before the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026. The coach advised him to rest, but Isak decided to play. Ignoring the pain, he performed brilliantly in this tournament held in Raipur. After finishing second in snatch, he made a strong comeback in clean and jerk and lifted a total weight of 235 kg and won the gold medal.

that emotional moment of victory

As soon as Isak won the gold, his uncle ran to him and hugged him. It was not just a victory, but the result of years of struggle, pain and hard work. Isak says that since his father passed away, his uncle accompanies him to every competition. The joy on his face after this victory was the biggest reward for him.

journey from struggle to success

Isaac's journey has not been easy. In 2024, he won a silver medal in the Youth National Championship. After this, in 2025 he also won silver medal in junior competition and bronze medal in National Weightlifting Championship. Currently, he is taking training at the National Center of Excellence of Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Imphal and is also continuing his studies.

Why is Isaac's story special?

Isaac's story is special because it is not just the victory of one player. This is the story of courage that does not give up even in the most difficult situations. While most people break down after such a great sorrow, Isaac turned his pain into strength and proved himself. Today he has become an inspiration not only for the youth of Mizoram but also for the entire country.