He runs even in dreams

MANJIT SINGH CHAHAL, 29 Athlete, Narwana, Haryana

BECAUSE

Manjit clinched the gold in the 800m event at the 2018 Jakarta Games, his first Asian Games.

THE SECRET OF MY SUCCESS

Sheer hard work. Though I train for seven to eight hours every day, mentally I am constantly thinking about training and ways to improve myself. So in a way I am training 24X7.

I run even in my dreams. While training in the morning, I am simultaneously thinking of my next training session. I am inspired by watching videos and reading about the journey of sports personalities such as Mahinder Singh Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar and Michael Jordan.

THE GOAL NEXT

My next goal is to clinch a gold medal in the 2020 Olympics.

MY ROLE MODEL

My uncle, Kuldeep Singh Chahal, the first person from my village Ujhana to clear the IPS exams in 2008, is my role model.

Despite working full time as an assistant sub inspector (ASI) in Chandigarh, he prepared for his civil service exams. He used to carry his books with him to work. Today he is the district police chief of Mohali.

BY THE WAY

I am very fond of playing volleyball. It helps me keep fit. Also, even if I am dead tired after training I make sure I grind almonds and have them with milk. I make sure I eat well.

SECOND OPINION

“He is a star and has proved his worth by winning gold in the 800m event at the Asian Games. I have always admired him for his perseverance and hard work.”

–Bahadur Singh,

National chief coach athletics