It was most gratifying and disappointing. I had never expected to take part in the Olympics because women’s weightlifting was not an Olympic sport.
Kunjarani Devi, who finished a creditable fourth in women’s weightlifting at Athens, narrates her Olympics experience
It was most gratifying and disappointing. I had never expected to take part in the Olympics because women’s weightlifting was not an Olympic sport. When it finally got the recognition for the Sydney Games, I was very excited. At last, I thought, I can perform at the world stage. But I was not picked for the Sydney Games. Some policy makers thought I did not stand chance to win a medal. I thought I stood a chance. But I was happy Malleswari made us all proud.
I was more than determined to make it to Athens. When I was there, I was initially nervous. I did not know how can I perform in front of so many sportspersons. I had previously taken part in the world championships and did not experience any nervousness. But Olympics are different. It is a world class stage where the champions of every sport and every country converge and exhibit their prowess. The World championships are different. You have only athletes from your discipline.
I made friends many friends. I was wonder-struck to see how they prepare for a competition, mentally, physically, psychologically. The Indians are far behind in this aspect. There I realised why we are not a great sporting nation. Our sports policy is flawed.
When the D day came my nervousness had disappeared. I gave my best shot and did well. Many in India remember Athens Games only for Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. He won a silver. It was a great achievement. I am happy for him. I had finished 4th. I was second best after Rathore. No one remembers it. I thought I would finish on the podium. But I erred in my strategy. Had I been more defensive, I could have won a silver or a bronze. That is a regret I will have to live with my rest of my life. More than that, I was disappointed the way a couple of teammates were caught for doping. In my career, Athens will remain as a satisfaction and disappointment.
As told to Vijay Tagore
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