Animesh Kujur: From Football Enthusiast to Sprinting Sensation
In a remarkable journey of transformation, Animesh Kujur has emerged as one of the fastest sprinters in India, specializing in the 200m event. The 20-year-old athlete from Odisha recently clinched the gold medal at the 27th National Federation Senior Athletics Competition, narrowly missing out on the National Record by just a tenth of a second.
Animesh’s foray into athletics was not a conventional one. Hailing from Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh, he initially pursued football, following in the footsteps of his sports-loving parents who excelled in the field during their university days. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a shift in his sporting endeavors.
After a chance encounter with a State Athletics meet, Animesh decided to explore his potential in track and field. With limited experience in sprinting, he quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his talent and determination. A fortuitous meeting with coach Martin Owens at the National Open U-23 Championships proved to be a turning point in his career.
Under Owens’ guidance, Animesh honed his skills and focused on improving his start, a crucial aspect of sprinting. His dedication and hard work paid off as he achieved remarkable success, setting new personal bests and eyeing qualification for the Paris Olympics.
As Animesh continues to push his limits and strive for excellence, his inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and belief in one’s abilities. With unwavering determination, he aims to make a mark on the international stage and fulfill his Olympic dream.