TK Vishal, a 23-year-old sprinter from Jolarpettai in Tamil Nadu's Tirupattur district, achieved a remarkable milestone by clocking 44.98 seconds in the 400m race at the Federation Cup held in Ranchi. This victory not only reaffirmed his status as a national record holder but also marked his entry into the elite realm of Indian athletics by breaking the 45-second barrier. Vishal's journey to success was not straightforward; as a child, he struggled with 'knock knees', a condition that hindered his mobility. His father, Thennarasu, sought alternative therapies, leading to a unique training regimen that involved running in sand, which ultimately improved Vishal's condition and sparked his passion for running. Over the years, he transitioned from shorter sprints to the 400m, guided by coaches who recognized his potential. Despite facing setbacks, including a recent near-miss for Commonwealth Games qualification, Vishal remains committed to his training and finds joy in the process of running. His father continues to be his biggest supporter, attending every race and celebrating his achievements.