Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, experienced an unexpected setback in her quest for a medal at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. Despite giving her utmost, an injury hampered her performance in the women's 49kg weightlifting event, where she finished fourth with a total lift of 191 kg.
After the event, a disheartened Chanu expressed her long-standing dream to secure a medal at the Asian Games.
"I had trained hard but I could not bring the results because of this pain. I tried my best to win a medal for the country but could not. I am feeling bad. I could not take part in the 2018 Asian Games. It was my dream to win a medal in the Asian Games but it is not happening," said Chanu.
Her attempt at the 117kg clean and jerk lift became a turning point. Successful completion would have guaranteed her a bronze medal. However, in a twist of fate, Chanu fell on her back during the attempt. Nevertheless, she displayed commendable determination, managing to lift 108 kg in her best clean and jerk attempt and 83 kg in the snatch. Despite her relentless efforts, Chanu's tally of 191 kg couldn't surpass Thanyathon Sukcharoen's 199 kg, pushing her to the fourth spot.
Earlier in the event, Chanu faced challenges with the 86kg lift in the snatch segment, failing twice. During her last attempt, she struggled to rise from a squatting position, resulting in the barbell falling on her back. This unfortunate incident further underscored the adversity she faced during her Asian Games journey.
"Now, my target is to do well in the Paris Olympics. Pain had started during snatch warm up. Sir (Vijay Sharma) asked me if I wanted to pull out because it may lead to serious injury. But I continued because I wanted to win a medal," Chanu added.
However, the resilient weightlifter is not letting this setback define her. Focused on the future, Chanu is already setting her sights on the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. "My goal now is to put up a commendable performance at the Paris Olympics," she asserted.
Chanu's journey at the Asian Games is a testament to her undying spirit and dedication to the sport. Even in the face of adversity, she remains a beacon of inspiration for countless upcoming athletes.
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