Manikandan Kumar is a name known to all in the climbing world! His journey began way back in 2002, and over the years, he has established himself globally as a force to be reckoned with. 10 years into his climbing career, Mani, as he is known to all, entered his first ever World Championships in Paris, France. The then rookie, shocked the world by winning the competition and made his country proud, bringing home India’s first ever gold medal in the sport of climbing.
9 years on, and Mani has gone back and competed at the world championships 4 more times, bringing home three more podium finishes and medals. Now, while he coaches the next generation of Indian climbers at his facility, Bangalore Boulder, he has his eyes set on an Olympic medal and we’re thrilled to be fuelling his inspiring campaign!