Mahak Chauhan, a 20-year-old from Bhadrasu village in Mori block, Uttarkashi, made a remarkable debut at the CASA Rugby 7s Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, held from May 16 to 17. Competing in her first senior international tournament, she was named the women's player of the tournament after scoring nine tries, the highest for India. Despite the Indian women's team finishing fourth, Mahak's individual performance was a highlight, showcasing her potential in the sport. Her journey into rugby began unexpectedly when she attended a trial, believing it was for a track event. Her father, Arvendra Chauhan, shared that Mahak had always shown athletic talent but had initially focused on track-and-field. The CASA Rugby 7s featured six nations, including Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka, and aimed to enhance the competitive landscape for rugby in the region. Mahak's success is a testament to the opportunities available for athletes from remote areas when they are identified and supported at the national level.