Today it’s been 28 years in the skating fraternity. I am grateful for everything this sport has given me. After setting up my academy chain NTSW - Nikhilesh Tabhane Skates World in almost 5-6 cities with multiple branches and expanding it further internationally in Colombia and Kenya, I am now all set for launching up my new skate product line.
1. Tell us about your background and journey.
I grew up in a middle-class family in Nagpur, where my Mom, Dad, and my elder brother always encouraged me in everything I wanted to do right from the beginning. I entered the skating field in 1994-95 mid when I was just 4 years old. The sport which was started as a hobby converted into a passion after winning my first ever medal (Bronze) at Vidarbha level that too on beginner level skate.
Following this, it always used to be about going to the next level and achieving/setting new targets until winning a medal for the country. Being a skater is a big risk in India knowing the fact that you just have to put in a lot of money for almost everything that includes costly equipment, event tours from state to international level, training, gym & nutrition, physio, and so on without getting anything in return. Even after achieving a medal at the International level, you aren’t getting anything (Cash award or job) from federation or government.
Looking at this scenario, it used to be very difficult to afford my tours and keep updated equipment. But the thing which kept me going and winning was my long years of struggles and blessings of my well-wishers. Somewhere deep down in my heart I think I continued with a belief that even if I don’t get anything back in return in terms of name, fame, and money I will do it selflessly for the country.
Because at the end of the day, I believe that self-satisfaction is the ultimate satisfaction. Also, if you are playing a sport that is not cricket or an Olympic sport, you have to have a backup plan. For this, I did my graduation in B.E (Electronics) and Post Graduation in M.M.S (Marketing).
Today it’s been 28 years in the skating fraternity. I am grateful for everything this sport has given me. After setting up my academy chain NTSW - Nikhilesh Tabhane Skates World in almost 5-6 cities with multiple branches and expanding it further internationally in Colombia and Kenya, I am now all set for launching up my new skate product line.
2. How did you decide to make your passion your career? Was your family supportive?
There are only two options if you are thinking of making a career in this sport - Either the individual can be a coach or a vendor of sports equipment, nothing more than this. Skating being a technical Sport, I made sure that I learned proper techniques during my competing days which further helped me to uplift young talents through NTSW where skaters join training programs from almost every corner of the country.
From day 1 till today, my family has been supportive at every stage. I think that’s the only reason I sustained and strongly handled all the twists and turns that came in my life.
3. What is the level of commitment and time required to make a sport a career?
First of all, sport is all about being disciplined where every small thing matters in order to give your best shot. Self-commitment, belief, and unlimited patience are the main pillars not only in achieving your sport-related goals but also your life goals.
4. How can we encourage more youngsters to take up sports as a full-time profession?
Now is the digital generation where the majority population are busy spending time in front of the screen causing numerous health problems. Hence, to live and enjoy a fit life, skating is the best sport. Because at the end of the day it's good health we have to carry till the end.
5. Tell us about your greatest achievement.
Winning 2 bronze medals in 2016 Asian Championship; 300 Mtrs - NR 24.90 secs and 200 Mtrs - NR 16.85 secs. Team NTSW players representing the country. These are my greatest achievements
6. What piece of advice would you like to give to aspiring speed skaters?
Skating is a very beautiful yet addictive sport. You can play this sport to strengthen your overall physical and mental attributes. But, it's also very important to focus and do your academic qualification along with the sport.
7. Which is your favourite book and why?
Everyone is a reader; some just haven't found their favourite book yet. The thing about books is, that it is not only an implicit form of knowledge or wisdom. But every book brings out a different experience within us. It's a kaleidoscopic thing. I am still on the journey of finding my favourite book.
Bio
Nikhilesh Tabhane is an Indian speed skater, Shiv Chhatrapati awardee, and Asian Bronze Medalist. He has been training thousands of budding skaters across the world.
Interviewed By - Vasugi
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