Discus Throw

Like every year, this year too, along with other more popular throwing events – Medicine Ball, Shot Put, and Javelin Throw – we also had Discus Throw. Most of us have very little idea about it, leave alone knowing whether it takes place or not during the Sports Fest. I, for instance, learnt of its existence only in Grade 8 when I tried it out for the first time. It was only then that I realized how exhilarating throwing a mere metal disc can be. I have been a regular participant ever since. Trust me, it is in no way less cool than Shot Put or Javelin Throw, and it adds a finishing touch to our minor version of the Olympics.

You may be wondering what a Discus Throw area looks like. Well, I can describe it as a small, circular space partially surrounded by a net. The purpose of having the net is to protect those standing in the vicinity from getting hit by the disc in case the disc slips out of their hands or gets released early or flies outside the designated boundary. But along with that, it also gives you a special feeling – a sense of personalization and comfort that comes within the idea of having a cocoon surrounding you – and boosts your confidence until your heartbeat paces up, breath shortens, and body shakes with nervousness. It’s only temporary, though. Then, you take one last deep, hopeful breath, swing your arm back, and with the momentum gained after a couple of swings you release the disc from your hand with immense strength – eyes tightly shut, breath released. And finally, as you open your eyes, you see the black disc soaring through the sky in one smooth arch, reaching far, and dashing into the ground. The whole scene reminds me of the times when we would watch the black dusky Crag Martins swiftly floating, or rather, leaping in the vast, endless sky – both the disc and the black bird soar endlessly, confidently, and unstoppably.

No matter whether the Discus goes far or falls immediately after a short flight, whether it goes smoothly or wobbles in the middle – the cheers of motivation and clapping of your friends never get old. They will be there for you regardless of whether you win or lose. And this is the best part. Their unconditional, pure love for you and the way they consistently extend it to you in one way or another is irreplaceable. To me the Sports Fest is all about that very motivation and support – it’s an opportunity for those around you to express their love for you. Then, it is not just a disc getting thrown in the air anymore, but a revelation of what and how much you mean to people, and how there is so much more in store for you.