Dilip Mahadu Gavit wrote an unforgettable chapter in Indian para-athletics at the 2026 Commonwealth Games with a Games-record time of 10.71 seconds in the men’s 100-meter T47 event.
He became the first male para-athlete from India to win a gold medal in athletics at the Commonwealth Games. However, there is a very intimate tale of the individuals who assisted Gavit in reaching the greatest stage hidden behind that historic dash. Gavit talked candidly about his experience in an exclusive interview with Times Now, remembering how his trainers treated him like their own children after his parents were unable to care for him.
He revealed that his coaches continue to be his greatest source of inspiration. He also described how, before his incredible late comeback to gold, his voice from the track helped him realise he was falling behind.
‘My Coach Took Me Into His Home’: Gavit
Gavit’s coach has served as much more than just a mentor. The gold medalist at the Commonwealth Games revealed that his coach gave him the care and support that shaped his life and career. “My primary motivation is my coach. My parents couldn’t take care of me, but my coach took me into his home and raised me like his own children. That is my motivation,” Gavit told Times Now.
Gavit Recalls 50m Turning Point
Although, Gavit’s record-breaking 100m final did not have the perfect start, but a crucial moment at the halfway mark turned the tide in his favour. The athlete revealed how hearing his coach’s voice made him realise he was trailing and prompted his late surge towards gold.
“In the beginning, I didn’t have a good start. My coach was at the 50-metre mark. When I reached 50 metres, I heard his voice and realised I was trailing. After that, I caught up with the speed, accelerated past everyone, and won the gold medal. He was very happy, and I was very happy too,” he said.
Gavit had a message for children, especially those growing up in rural areas, after overcoming his own challenges to place on the podium at the .He encouraged them to avoid drugs and instead participate in sports because he thought it would give them a better future. “In our village, there are small children who get addicted to drugs. They should stay away from that and get addicted to sports instead. It will give them a good future and allow them to make their country proud. If I can do it, you can also do it,” Gavit said.