Mangalore, 07 Oct 2014: MR Poovamma, the girl who got the gold for India in 4*400 meter relay with Asian games record and an individual bronze in the women’s 400 meter race in the Incheon Asian Games was welcomed grandly by the district administration and the state armature athletic association at the Mangalore International Airport(MIA) today.
The district in-charge minster Ramanatha Rai along with minister for sports and youth empowerment Abhayachandra Jain, Deputy Commissioner AB Ibrahim, MLA of Mangalore South constituency JR Lobo, ZP President Asha Timmappa Gowda, Deputy Mayor of MCC Kavitha Vasu welcomed Poovamma the sprinter on behalf of the district administration.
It was an un-imaginary welcome the golden girl received, in the presence of her father Raju, mother Jaaji, brother Manju and along with many family members.
Addressing the media persons she explained her tale of success.
“We were sure of winning the gold. All four of us wanted to win the gold with the new games record. And we did it.”
“Indians are always the experts in relay when it comes to Asian Games. But it is not easy to compete in the different weather conditions and win medal for your country. When we practice in our home conditions everything seems normal. When you go to a new track, the climate, the knowledge about your opponents will decide your performance. Even though I won bronze in the individual 400 meters race I am satisfied with the effort”
She pointed out that the welcome she received has created a new hope as the future of the athletics will be a bright one.
She said “Even though we did not receive much support in Athletics we struggled and got the results for our country. We spent from our pocket till now. This welcome has created a new hope as the future of the athletics will be a bright one. I’m really happy to see people who have come in large numbers to welcome me.”
“I feel that the athletes requires more support when it comes to exposure, facilities and finance. The state government and the private sponsors should encourage the athletes financially and allow them to get best training beyond our country limits.”
“I am happy that our sports minister came to Incheon and wished us. This is a very positive sign. We have been promised with a site. The future seems to be a promising one.”
“We need more exposure. The previous only race that we competed is the commonwealth games. Participation in more events gives us the gift of experience and helps us to know our competitors. The authorities must look into giving more exposure to the athletes.”
Courtesy : Bellevision