Jakarta: She's been the rising star of Indian athletics. Ever since her fine performance in 400m at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games (CWG) earlier this year, Hima Das has been hogging the limelight. She followed up her sixth-place finish at CWG, with a historic triumph at the IAAF U-20 World Championships at Tampere, Finland, where the 18-year-old from Assam became the first Indian to win a track gold at the world level and became an overnight celebrity.
Hima is a key member of India's athletics contingent at the Asian Games. She was confidence personified during a brief chat after her training session at the Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex here on Wednesday. "I hope to do well and bring a smile on the faces of the people back home. The training session at Prague went off well and the mood is upbeat," she told Onmanorama.
Hima, who has a personal best of 51.13 seconds, is unfazed by the weight of expectations. "The race remains the same, only the name of the competition and track change. I am sure with the blessings of my countrymen I can win a medal."
Bahrain's naturalised star Salwa Eid Naser, who holds the Asian record, of 49.08 is the favourite to win the gold at Jakarta.
Prospects in relay events
Hima firmly believes Indian can rule the roost in relay events at Jakarta. "We've always done well in relay events at the Asian level. This time also it's no different. I am sure we can win the gold."
Hima, who is a part of the 4x400m quartet, however won't be competing in the 4x400m mixed relay, which is making it's debut at the Games. "There is not much time gap between my 200m race and the mixed relay. So I won't be part of it."
Hima, whose first love was football, was quick to point out that playing the sport has done her a world of good. "It has definitely improved my endurance level."
Hima, who loves listening to melodious songs to unwind, takes special care to be active on social media whenever she finds time."I love to interact on social media as my friends and relatives want to keep in touch."
