Indian Relay Teams Secure Olympic Berths, Fulfilling Dreams and Justifying Choices
The Indian men’s and women’s 4x400m relay teams have achieved a significant milestone by qualifying for the Paris Olympics. This accomplishment holds profound meaning for each member, representing redemption, fulfillment, and the validation of early life decisions.
Women’s Team:
* MR Poovamma: After enduring a two-year doping ban, Poovamma’s Olympic qualification marks a triumphant return. The decorated athlete has won multiple medals in the 400m and 4x400m relay at the Asian Games.
* Rupal Chaudhary: The 19-year-old made history as the first Indian to win two medals at the World U20 Athletics Championship. Despite humble beginnings, she has overcome challenges to achieve success.
* Jyothika Dandi Sri: Driven by her father’s Olympic aspirations, Jyothika has dedicated herself to the sport. She has been part of the Indian team that won bronze at the Asian Championships.
* Subha Venkatesan: The daughter of a construction worker, Subha’s journey began at the insistence of her grandfather. She has won medals in national meets and was part of the silver-winning team at the 2018 Asian Junior Championships.
Men’s Team:
* Muhammed Anas: The national record holder and two-time Olympian, Anas has won medals at the Asian Games and Asian Championships. He was part of the Indian relay teams at the Tokyo Olympics.
* Muhammed Ajmal Variyathodi: A former football player, Ajmal switched to running and has been part of the gold-winning 4x400m relay team at the 2017 Asian Championships.
* Amoj Jacob: Born in Kerala but raised in Delhi, Jacob began his sporting journey in football before transitioning to sprinting. He was part of the gold-winning 4x400m relay team at the 2017 Asian Championships.
* Arokia Rajiv: The son of a state-level sprinter, Rajiv is an Armyman who has won medals in the 4x400m relay at the Asian Games. He was part of the Tokyo Olympics relay team that broke the Asian record.
For these athletes, Olympic qualification represents a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. It is a testament to their resilience, talent, and the support of their families and coaches.
