MR Poovamma Celebrates Historic Gold Medal Win at Asian Games 2026
MR Poovamma reflects on Indias gold medal win in womens 4x400m relay at the Asian Games 2026, emphasizing hard work and dedication.
Nagoya, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : MR Poovamma expressed immense pride following India’s gold medal victory in the women’s 4×400 meter relay at the Asian Games 2026 in Nagoya. The 36-year-old athlete recalled the team’s disappointment in narrowly missing gold during the previous Asian Games.
Poovamma, who ran the second leg of the relay, stated that the team was determined to transform past regrets into triumph. “I feel very proud because we wanted this gold medal so much. The women’s 4×400 meter team was eager to redeem ourselves after narrowly missing out last time. We kept that in mind, and that’s why we won the gold. Hearing our national anthem was a proud moment for all of us,” she shared.
The relay team, which included Kiran Pahal, Poovamma, Prachi Chaudhary, and Vithya Ramraj, finished with a time of 3:29.69, securing the gold medal. Bahrain and China followed, earning silver and bronze with times of 3:30.21 and 3:31.02, respectively. This victory marked India’s first gold in the women’s 4×400 meter relay at the Asian Games, surpassing their previous silver medal performance.
In her message to younger athletes, Poovamma emphasized the importance of perseverance. “I want to tell them that no matter what, keep working hard. Age is just a number; it should not be a barrier. It doesn’t matter. Keep pushing through injuries or setbacks. Hard work definitely pays off,” she advised.
Poovamma also acknowledged the support from the Khelo India initiative, the Sports Authority of India, and the Athletics Federation of India. She noted, “They have provided excellent support. Our training camps in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Tokyo were very beneficial. Everything has helped us achieve this gold medal.”
After her victory, Poovamma excitedly spoke with her family and is eagerly looking forward to returning home. “I spoke with my parents, husband, and brother, and everyone is very happy. I haven’t made any plans yet; I just want to go home and see my child. It’s been six or seven months since I last saw my niece, and I can’t wait to meet her,” she said.
She dedicated her medal to her family and everyone who supported her. “Always for my country, but especially for my parents, husband, the Federation, the Sports Authority, the government, and all those who have stood by me,” Poovamma concluded.
