I have learned everything from Rio Olympics: Mirabai Chanu

I have learned everything from Rio Olympics: Mirabai Chanu

Mirabai Chanu

Ace Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu asserted that she’s learned a lot during her stint at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. She now looks even more confident five years down the line to do well at the much-awaited Tokyo Olympics. 

India’s world record holder had last month revealed that she was ‘completely broken’ after the failure at Rio. Chanu also mentioned that she had talked to a psychologist to help her get back on track. The 26-year old said she has evolved as a weightlifter since the last Olympics, changing and tweaking techniques.

“I learned a lot by participating in the Rio Olympics. In fact, I have learned everything from Rio — from my weaknesses to how to rectify them, how to improve myself in terms of training and performance in competition,” Mirabai said in a video posted by Sports Authority of India (SAI) on Monday.

FS Video

Mirabai had put up a highly disappointing performance at the Rio Games. She could not get an overall total in the women’s 48kg category after failing to lift the weight in any of her three attempts in the clean & jerk section. However, the Imphal-born has won several accolades since then she bagged the gold medal in the World Championship and 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. Currently, things are looking bright for the Manipuri athlete ahead of the assignments lined up.

Mirabai Chanu derives inspiration from Kunjarani Devi

Kunjarani Devi
Kunjarani Devi

Chanu mentioned that she aspires to become successful like India’s first weightlifting superstar Kunjarani Devi. The former Indian weightlifter clinched seven World Championships silver medals and two Asian Games bronze during a decorated career.

“I would look up to Kunjarani madam a lot, she was a top player, and from Manipur. I would also think that I have to be like madam, win lots of medals like her. “Whenever I am in any doubt or under any sort of pressure, I look at my videos and try to motivate myself,” Mirabai said.

“I wish all the luck to all athletes who have qualified for the Olympics. We all must strive to give our best for India and the country on top.”

The 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games are scheduled to take place between July 23 and August 8.

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