Our Sports Reporter
GUWAHATI: The new sensation of Indian athletics Amlan Borgohain was in the city today to attend a felicitation function which was organized by the Assam Athletics Association for his recent record breaking performance at the Federation Cup held in Kozhikode. At the side line of the function the athlete, who already qualified for the forthcoming Asian Games scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, in Chaina in September, spoke to The Sentinel. Here is the excerpt.
The Sentinel (TS): Share your aim in Asian Games.
Amlan Borgohain: Right now I am not thinking about a medal. I am now working to improve my timing and it is my prime target. If I do so, a medal will come automatically.
TS: What about your preparation...
Amlan: I mentioned earlier that I am working to improve my timing. Very soon I will go abroad for higher training and will also participate in different international meets. I want to compete there against those athletes who are now ranked better than me and I feel it is the only way to improve my performance further.
TS: You are on the verge of participating in the World Athletics Championship…
Amlan: It's possible if I am able to maintain my ranking at the time of the cut off date. I am trying my best to maintain the ranking by improving my timing.
TS: What kind of support are you getting from Assam Athletics Association?
Amlan: Oh! It's tremendous. I received a phone call from the president of the Assam Athletics Association Lakhya Konwar within half an hour after I created the new National record at Kozhikode. It's very encouraging. The officials of the association stay in touch with me always and if required also extend help. I am also thankful to the Assam government and Sports Authority of Assam along with Reliance Foundation and Odisha government who are taking care of me on a regular basis.
TS: Do you have any idol?
Amlan: Yes. Justin Gatlin and Usain Bolt.
TS: Now you are the inspiration of the local athlete. How do you like to motivate them?
Amlan: Ignore negative comments on your performance. Always think positive and try to work at the track smartly.
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