The girl who chose to kick back

Palesha Goverdhan, who was born without a left palm and is the first Nepali Paralympian to qualify for an Olympic event, talks about her athletic journey, which has been full of ups and downs.

Palesha Goverdhan, now 20, reflects on her childhood as quite distinct from other kids her age. Being born without a left palm, she began school a year later than her peers, which made her feel like she stood out. Despite feeling different, she never viewed herself as weaker than others. Known as a bit of a rebel in her household, she was always kicking and punching even before she discovered taekwondo.