When the call first came inviting her for the Sportstar Aces Awards function in Mumbai, Annu Rani did not think she would get the award.
“When you called, I thought I was being invited just to attend the function. I am very surprised to get this award and very happy,” said the javelin throw national record holder who walked away with the Sportswoman of the Year award in track and field.
Annu made history in Doha in October when she became the first Indian woman to enter the javelin throw final at the World Championships where she finished eighth. She broke her own national record, taking it to 62.43m in the qualifying round at the Worlds.
That, and some improvements in her technique, have given her new confidence.
“Earlier, my ‘attack’ was faulty, I have improved on that. Earlier, my angle of release was too high and I was told that if I lower it a bit, my throws will be better. I’m working on that,” said the 27-year-old, the Asian silver medallist in Doha last year, after receiving her award from the Athletics Federation of India President Adille Sumariwalla.
“Even at the Worlds, some big names, including the World record holder and Olympic champion were struggling. (Incidentally, Czech Republic's Barbara Spotakova, the world record holder with 72.28m, finished behind Annu Rani in the ninth spot with 59.87m while Olympic champion Sara Kolak of Croatia was seventh with 62.28m).
“I think something like 65 or 66m will bring an Olympic medal in Tokyo this year and I hope to do that.”
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, chess ace Vishwanathan Anand, The Hindu Publishing Group chairman N. Ram, former India hockey captain M. M. Somaya, Olympian shooter Anjali Bhagwat and Olympian shuttler Aparna Popat selected the deserving winners in categories involving young athletes, teams, coaches and parathletes.
The awards look to create a medium of knowledge and vision exchange as it brings all stakeholders of Indian sports under one roof.
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