My next aim is gold in London Olympics: Ashwini

Golden girl returns

“My next goal is to bag gold in London Olympics. I will strive to achieve it,” said Ashwini who landed at the Bajpe airport at 3.17 pm on Tuesday.

She said she will now concentrate more on hurdles. “I am confident of my speed but I will have to improve my efficiency in hurdles. I need to practise more and spend more time for exercise,” she said.

In a lighter vein, she said: “I am fed up of eating Chinese food. Now, I want to relish fish curry cooked at home.

“I was deprived of homely food for days on end. I want to eat fish curry prepared by my mother,” a beaming Ashwini said.

“It is nearly a year since I saw my parents. They are happy seeing me coming back with a gold medal. I will be at home for two days and I want to meet my relatives. I didn’t expect such a huge crowd to welcome me. This has really brought me cheers,” she said.

Though Ashwini looked tired because of the tedious journey, she spent time sharing her experience with her parents, relatives and media persons. “I have faith in God. My parents too offer poojas at home. I will start preparing for the Olympics only after visiting Kamalashile temple,” she added.

Villagers in Akkunje were in a festive mood on Tuesday and had made elaborate arrangements to welcome Ashwini. A reception was organised by the district administration near Swagathagopura in Udupi.  More than 3,000 students lined up on both sides of the road to welcome the golden girl.