Fri Nov 08 19:43:21 UTC 2024: ## Alappuzha’s Sreya Sprints to Gold, Balancing Kathakali and Athletics

**Alappuzha, November 9, 2024:** R. Sreya, a student of St. Joseph’s HSS School in Alappuzha, has proven that talent knows no bounds, showcasing her prowess in both athletics and the traditional dance form of Kathakali.

Sreya, inspired by her elder sister who is a Bharatanatyam dancer, won the gold medal in the Junior Girls’ 100m at the Kerala School Sports & Games 2024, held on November 8th. Her winning time even surpassed the senior champion E.P. Rahna Raghu’s performance.

Despite her rigorous training schedule, which includes two hours of athletics practice every morning and Kathakali lessons in the evening, Sreya’s dedication is remarkable. Her father, K. Shyamlal, expressed pride in his daughter’s achievements, highlighting her recent Kathakali performance as Krishna at the Kalarcode Mahadeva Temple.

Sreya’s path to success has been paved with challenges. Lacking a synthetic track in Alappuzha, her coach, Joseph Antony, takes her to the Municipal Stadium at Pala for training once or twice a month. The rest of her practice takes place on a mud track at the Leo XIII School.

Despite these hurdles, Sreya’s talent was evident from a young age. Her parents enrolled her in the Leo XIII Athletics Academy when she was in the third standard. Her passion for the 400m earned her a silver medal at the State Games on Wednesday.

Sreya’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and determination. Her ability to excel in two demanding disciplines is an inspiration to young athletes across Kerala.

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