Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Oct 3: Having overcome several challenges, setbacks and injuries throughout her sporting journey, Asian Games gold medallist M R Poovamma says she is determined to continue her winning journey and return from the next Asian Games with another gold medal.
She was also honoured by Mohtisham Complexes Pvt Ltd at City Centre Mall in Mangaluru.
Speaking at a press meet held at City Centre Mall, Mangaluru, Poovamma reflected on her long and inspiring sporting career, emphasising that success and failure are both natural parts of life.
“I have faced many ups and downs and injuries in my life. I have seen both defeat and victory. Age should never be a barrier to achievement,” Poovamma said, expressing her determination to give her best at the next Asian Games.
Sharing her experience of the Asian Games relay event, Poovamma said the team entered the competition with a clear determination to win gold after securing silver at the previous edition.
“We stepped onto the track with a ‘do or die’ mindset and a firm determination to win gold. Despite strong competition from Bahrain and China, we succeeded in building a good lead. Hearing the Indian national anthem and seeing the pride on the faces of everyone around us was a truly special moment,” she recalled.
For Poovamma, the latest achievement is not merely another medal, but a reflection of years of dedication, perseverance and the ability to rise after setbacks.
“Success and failure are natural in life. We cannot expect to see only success. Experiencing failure gives us the strength to work harder and strive for success again,” she said.
Looking ahead, Poovamma expressed confidence that her journey is far from over and that she is ready to take on new challenges on the international stage.
She credited her coaches Vasanth and Dinesh Kunder, along with the constant support of her family, for playing a crucial role in shaping her long and successful sporting career.
Poovamma’s mother Jaji Raju, father M G Raju, husband Jithin Paul, Mohtishyam directors Syed Mohammed Arshad and Syed Mohammed Sawod, Poovamma’s coach Dinesh Kundar, Sports Department Deputy Director Pradeep D’Souza, MLC Ivan D’Souza, former MUDA chairman Tejomaya, Director of Daijiworld TV Alexis Castelino and others were present on the occasion.