Aizawl: In an extraordinary achievement that has captured the nation’s attention, 11-year-old Samuel Lalbiakhlua, hailing from Saitual town in Mizoram, has soared to new heights by becoming India’s youngest high-flying paragliding pilot. His accomplishment, achieved on March 16, marks a significant milestone in the realm of adventure sports.
Samuel’s journey to this achievement took him to the breathtaking landscape of Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh, renowned as the world’s second-highest and Asia’s highest paragliding spot. Undergoing rigorous training for six days, Samuel displayed unwavering determination and skill as he embarked on this daring endeavor.
Zaithawnmawii, Samuel’s mentor, revealed that he was enrolled in the TT School of Paragliding, Himachal Pradesh, where he underwent a basic course starting from March 10. To attain the prestigious P-2 pilot level 2 certification, Samuel undertook five flights, successfully completing two flights as of last Saturday.
Samuel’s passion for adventure was evident from a tender age. His father, Malsawma Hniarcheng, recounted how Samuel began exploring adventure sports at six years old, fearlessly rappelling down a 60-foot cliff. By the age of eight, he had already conquered the Mamrawng peak, one of Mizoram’s highest summits towering at 1812 meters.
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The Mizoram Paragliding Association (MPGA) extended heartfelt congratulations to Samuel, hailing him as a pride of the state. In a statement, the MPGA said, “Mizoram Paragliding Association (MPGA) congratulates our very own Samuel Lalbiakhlua (11yrs), India’s youngest High Flying paragliding pilot. May you soar to greater heights with a bright future. Hearty wishes to his mentor, @varte_zaithanmawii for your unwavering spirit to promote this sport.”
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