Gurugram
Payal Kanodia achieved a remarkable feat by winning two gold medals at the International Union of Kettlebell Lifting (IUKL) World Championship 2024, held in Corfu, Greece, from October 10 to 14. Her success has brought great pride and joy to her hometown of Tauru, Haryana, and the entire nation.
Competing against top athletes from 30 countries, Kanodia first claimed gold in the 16 kg Snatch event in the 68 kg weight category. She followed this with another gold medal in the Double Arm Long Cycle (16+16 kg) event, also within the same weight class.
The IUKL, a global organization with members from over 60 countries, featured a diverse group of competitors, including youth categories, which makes Kanodia’s achievements even more impressive. After her wins, she expressed her pride in representing India and shared her joy at competing alongside her son, Kiaan, who matched her enthusiasm for the sport. She emphasized the importance of nurturing a love for sports in children and acknowledged her coach’s unwavering support as crucial to her success.
Kanodia has consistently showcased her talent at the IUKL World Championships, previously winning a silver medal in Budapest in 2021. She also made history in 2022 at India’s inaugural Kettlebell Sport World Championship in Delhi. Through her initiatives like the ‘Lakshya’ program, Kanodia aims to empower over 500 young athletes by 2025, fostering confidence and a lifelong connection to sports and the arts.
