India's newly-found weightlifting sensation Jeremy Lalrinnunga scripted history on Sunday by smashing two Games record enroute to a coveted gold medal triumph at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Jeremy added the second yellow metal to India's medal tally which also features two silver and a bronze medal.
Jeremy was all guns blazing in the men's 67kg competition with a total lift of 300kg (140kg+160kg), finishing ahead of Samoa's Vaipava Nevo Ioane, who managed a total of 293kg (127kg +166kg). Meanwhile, Nigeria's Edidiong Joseph Umoafia took bronze with an effort of 290kg (130kg+160kg).
Post his triumph, Jeremy caught up with India Today in an exclusive conversation and spoke his heart out.
"I started weightlifting in December 2011, then I joined the Army Sports Institute in 2012. At the Army Sports Institute, I was trained by a coach from Mizoram only. I won what I wanted to win (gold) but the performance was not complete. I wanted to show everyone how hard I had worked, but anything can happen in the game. Due to the muscle cramps, I could not give a complete performance in clean and jerk, but I am happy," Jeremy told India Today in an exclusive interview.
"My father treats us all like his brother and we play boxing with our brothers. I will train and opt for the 73kg category in the Olympics. I want to dedicate my medal to my family and my grandfather," he further added.
Jeremy looked injured at the end of his final attempt of 165kg, which he failed to complete, with the Indian coaches working closely with him. The youngster though looked in good spirit when he was presented the yellow metal on the podium as the Indian national anthem played in the background.
Son of a national-level boxer Lalneihtluanga, Lalrinnunga also aspired to don the gloves but shifted to weightlifting as it involved just power to excel, something he found fascinating.
Lalrinnunga also holds the national records which include 141 kg (snatch), 167 kg (clean and jerk), a total of 306 kgs in the 67kg category.
Jeremy also answered the following questions candidly.
Question - You have quite a sporting culture at home as you everyone in your family is in the sporting fraternity
Answer - The atmosphere at home is quite chilled out, my father treats me like a younger brother only.
Question - This was your last even in 67kgs category and now you will have to change the weight, how difficult this transition will be?
Answer - It is going to be difficult. the main task is gaining weight as I am confident in terms of training and will give my best in those circumstances. I am planning to reach the 73 category and when I do so I will train hard for the Olympics.
Question - Who would you dedicate this triumph?
Answer - I cannot just dedicate this to an individual as a lot of people have been involved in my journey. But yes i would like to thank my family, people of India and everyone who has played a crucial role in my life.
