London: Asserting that she has qualified for the Olympics on her own, diminutive weightlifter Soniya Chanu said on Sunday that she is not going to be intimidated by the presence of big names.
“I know it is huge and only the best sportspersons are here. The competition is bound to be tough,” admitted Soniya, who will be competing in the 48kg category.
However, when asked if she would get intimidated by the some big stars, Soniya shot back, saying, “Why should I get intimidated? I qualified through Asian championship held in Korea in April. If I did not get overawed there where I had to make the cut, why should I be worried here?
“God has given me the chance to represent my country, I finished fourth with career best of 175kg in Korea. The field was very strong but I had confidence.
“You must remember that I’m among the 14 lifters from across the world to have qualified for the Games in this weight category, which…is a big achievement,” she added.
“I have been doing well in the training and almost touching 175kg. I hope I will improve by the time my event is held.” (PTI)
