Last five years I kept myself busy to see this moment: Mirabai Chanu

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: Manipuri weightlifter Mirabai Chanu on Saturday opened India's medal tally in Tokyo Olympics with a silver in 49 kg category. In an interaction with Indian media after her medal winning performance at Sports Authority of India's facebook page Chanu, who is an employee of NF Railway, admitted that this medal can change the scenario of women weightlifting in the country. Here is the excerpt.

Q: Perhaps it's the happiest moment of your life.

Chanu: Oh! It's a dream come true. Last five years I was working very hard to see this moment and finally it has come. I am really happy.

Q: Share your journey from Rio to Tokyo…

Chanu: Actually I tried my best to finish on the podium in Rio Olympics also but unfortunately it did not happen. After the Rio Games was over I was a little bit upset but my coach and the officials of the Indian Weightlifting Federation had extended full support and always tried to boost my level of confidence. Yes, I have to make a lot of sacrifices also. Last five years I hardly spent five days at my home and remained busy with my training.

Q: Any specific suggestion from the coach before you starts competition on Saturday.

Chanu: Nothing special. Sir told me not to take any pressure and do the same thing as I have done earlier in my training. I just followed his instructions.

Q: Have you talked to your family members after the competition?

Chanu: Yes. They are really very happy. My mother didn't take any food from the morning until my competition was over. The neighbors also started to throng in our house after I confirmed my medal in Tokyo.

Q: Can this medal change the scenario of weightlifting in India?

Chanu: I hope so. This win is the result of my journey towards the Olympics. I hope more female athletes would now be inspired to participate in weightlifting .

Q: Was the Olympic medal in your mind when you first associated with this game?

Chanu: Not exactly. At the early stage, the Olympics was not in my mind. I was just busy in my training and took part in national level competitions. But once success started to come my attitude towards the game had changed. I started to think big and bring laurels for the country.

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