'Just go for it' Meet Paralympic Triathlete Melissa Stockwell

3-Time Paralympian Melissa Stockwell didn't quite know what the outcome would be when she readied herself on the Tokyo Paralympic triathlon course, preparing to compete in her third-ever Games. Regardless, she was happy — and beat the odds — to be there. She who was also a flag bearer at this year's Paralympic opening ceremony, ended up fifth in the PTS2 Paralympic women's triathlon event. Catch Melissa Stockwell in conversation with Ms. Namita Nayyar, Women Fitness

- By Ms. Namita Nayyar

On August 28, 2021, you were placed fifth in the women's triathlon PTS2 at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games with a time of 1 minute, 21.25 seconds. “I was overcome with pure joy on my last lap of the run today and coming through the finish,” was your message on social media. Can you elaborate on the emotions you experienced during your grand achievement?

I had nothing but pure joy in that moment. First, we were actually there! After Covid-19 started it was always a question on if it was happen and there we were racing which was incredible, truly bringing the world back together through sport.

Secondly, 8 weeks before I competed I fractured my back when I hit a tree on a training bike ride. I was so lucky my injuries weren't worse and how amazing that I could still be at the starting line in Tokyo. My expectations of the race changed a little but just being there, racing for the country I love and getting to that finish line with a broken back... Truly overcome with joy!

You are truly an inspiration for all women out there who tend to drop out when faced with challenges & injuries. From where do you derive that fighting spirit? Being a motivational speaker can you share reasons why many of us tend to drop out?