Sprinting to Success: Hima Das is the First Indian to Win Gold at Athletic Junior World Championship

Bharat Sharma

13/07/2018



A success story set in sweat, blood and tears – 18 year old Hima Das created history today by grabbing the gold medal in 400 metre final at the World U-20 Championship in Finland. Hailing from Assam, Northeast India, India’s new golden girl has made the country proud with her commendable efforts and stupendous win .

It is the first time India has won a gold medal in a track event at a World Championship.

The daughter of a rice farmer, Hima never let her humble beginnings come in the way of her grand dreams. After starting slow in the sprint race, she overtook the rivals to win the 400 metre final, clocking in at 51.46 seconds.

The country is filled with joy and wishes are pouring in from every nook and corner. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the young athlete by saying “India is delighted and proud of athlete Hima Das, and her achievement will certainly inspire young athletes in the coming years.”

Her feat is sky-rocketing but her early beginnings with athletic weren’t very favourable. Despite the lack of support and guidance early in her career, Hima continued to move towards her goal and practiced in the mud pits of rice fields. Even her family was initially reluctant to let their daughter pursue her dreams, but as is the case, she proved her mettle and made both her family and her countrymen swell with pride!

Hima’s talent and dedication was soon noticed by Nipon Das, a coach with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Welfare who pushed her to chase success. In an interview with Indian Express, Nipon said “She was wearing cheap spikes, but she won gold in the 100 and 200. She ran like the wind. I hadn’t seen such talent in ages.” Eventually, Nipon became a guiding force and kept telling Hima to dream big.

Hima Das’ achievement is another example of how anyone can achieve their dreams despite unfavourable circumstances. From Assam’s rice fields to the World Championship podium in Finland, Hina has come a long way and has now joined the elite club of medal winning Indian athletes.

Speaking of her achievement, Hima said “I am very happy to win the gold in the World Junior championships. I want to thank all the Indians back home and also those, who were cheering me here. It was very encouraging to have this kind of support.”

We congratulate Hima Das on her might achievement and hope that she continues to surpass expectations and win accolades for our country!

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