Swapna Narayanan
As the majority of our country was lamenting the shocking loss of the Blue Boys in the World Cup, one young girl – all of 19 – was painting the town gold in Europe!
In a span of about three weeks, this Golden Girl had managed to clock an impressive season’s best time of 52.09 seconds / 400 m across some Grand Prix races in Poland and Czech Republic.
What a feat! And what a spirit.
Popularly known ‘Dhing Express‘, Hima has her roots in Dhing town of the Nagaon district in Assam. Born to a farming couple, she is the eldest of their four children. Known to be always playing around with boys, Hima had initially thought of pursuing football, till her sports teacher recommended that she shifts to sprint. Taking his advice, and convincing her parents, she slowly and steadily grew and eventually moved to Guwahati. Initially apprehensive, her parents later agreed that their daughter had potential and they must encourage her. Her father, a fast runner himself, could see that she cannot be stopped.
It was in Guwahati that she got her two coaches to streamline her talent and move her towards her current personal favourite format of 400m, from the usual 100m and 200m that she was used to. As her coach is often heard recollecting, ‘She was wearing cheap spikes. But she won the 100m and 200m. She ran like the wind. I haven’t seen such talent in ages.’
Well, as she herself says – Hard work+Dreams+Dedication = Success.
It was awe-inspiring to see her humble and sweet response to the hoards of Indians congratulating her from around the globe, including national leaders and celebrities from the tinsel and sports world. She signed off assuring everyone that she is working hard for the next race. Hima, in her own way, celebrated her a part of her success by cooking Assamese Dal at her hotel room!
While she is in Europe, her heart was all in her home state Assam. As the state battles the floods, she stepped up and donated half of her salary to the ongoing relief efforts.
July seems to be a special month for Hima. Last year, she won the Gold in the 400m U-20 in Finland. And as she laps up all the Golds this year, let us congratulate her with all our hearts, while praying for her success and getting inspired by her grit, determination and spirit. Spirit not only to fly high in her career, but also to remain firmly on the ground at a personal level helping people.
May more laurels reach her soon…
Eyra 
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