Despite the initial lack of guidance, Shyam forged a career in sports through sheer hard work, winning numerous state and national competitions. Having secured a government job via the sports quota, he now supports the rural youth by offering fitness training and guidance through his fitness club.

Shyam Daundkar is a dedicated sportsperson and athlete. He has started a Racing Fitness Club at the Mahalunge Balewadi Stadium, Pune. Alongside, he serves in the Central Excise and Customs department.

Shyam shares that the club offers two morning sessions catering to individuals aged 10 to 80 and evening sessions tailored for students aged 6 to 20. It comprises a fitness group for all as well as specialised groups for sprinters and marathon runners.

His Racing Fitness Club currently trains 200 students, with 25 from them winning state medals, ten national medals, and one selected to participate in the Asian Youth Games. Shyam, along with his batchmates, who are former international athletes, has also engaged with schools to promote career opportunities in sports.

Originally from Pune, Shyam's passion for sports ignited during his school years. However, lacking guidance on pursuing a career in sports, he pursued a BSc in Agriculture from Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Kolhapur. Despite initially preparing for government exams, he realised his calling lay in sports. With guidance from his coach, who told him about the sports quota for government jobs, Shyam shifted his focus to athletics.

After relocating to Pune, he honed his skills in the 400m and 800m events, participating in various tournaments and clinching national-level medals before the 2020 lockdown. Following his job acquisition in the Central Excise and Customs department through the sports quota, Shyam and a friend resolved to assist the rural youth in pursuing sports careers, providing fitness training and guidance.

Born in Alandi, Pune, Shyam attended the local government school. During his schooling, he actively participated in various sports and served as the captain of the Kabaddi team. However, team sports posed a challenge as selection was dependent on the team's performance. At the advice of his school coach, he transitioned to athletics to improve his chances of competing at the international level.

After an unsuccessful attempt at the CDS exam in 2013 due to eyesight issues, he redirected his focus to sports. Under the guidance of his coach, he trained diligently and surprised many by securing fourth place in the 400m race and a gold medal in the 800m race at the state level.

Afterward, he committed himself to national tournaments, surpassing his previous record by completing the race in 154.8 seconds. Impressed by his achievement, his coach gifted him a pair of Nike shoes. He expresses gratitude for his coach's guidance, who himself was a marathon winner and provided him with both training and financial support. His coach also ensured he maintained a proper diet by providing fruits and protein shakes, further aiding his athletic journey.

Shyam draws inspiration from Swami Vivekananda's words: "Utho, jaago aur tab tak mat ruko jab tak manjil mil na jaye” (Arise, awake, and do not stop until the goal is reached)."

Talking about his struggles, Shyam recounts the lack of initial guidance, and how he tried seeking advice from star players. He shares that financial constraints posed a significant challenge, making him unable to afford expensive gear and proper diets. However, when his brother got employed in 2015, he supported Shyam financially.

Highlighting his achievements, he proudly mentions securing eight medals in state competitions and participating in the senior nationals eight times. Representing his department, he has earned three medals. Additionally, he clinched four medals across various events like the 200m, 400m, 800m, and 4x100m relay. Recently, he has been selected to participate in the World Masters Athletics Championships in Australia.

Advising the youth, Shyam encourages them to pursue their passions and strive for excellence in their chosen field. He urges them to aim for participation in international tournaments as well.