New Delhi, April 11 (NationPress) Renowned sprinter Hima Das has praised the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) for establishing initiatives that have significantly advanced the sport at the grassroots level. These policies empower athletes from smaller towns and cities to aspire to success in athletics and perform well in the upcoming 2036 Olympic Games.

The accomplished Hima, who secured two golds and one silver at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, took part in the third leg of the Indian Athletics Series held at the historic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi this past Saturday.

The 26-year-old athlete from Assam highlighted that the AFI has collaborated with the central government to foster athletics development from the ground up.

"All the recognition goes to the Athletics Federation of India for enhancing grassroots athletics through its partnership with the government. While I was warming up, many came to speak with me. I expressed my willingness to run alongside them, learning together. With India gearing up to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and the Olympics in 2036, I am optimistic about our future in athletics," Hima Das shared with IANS in New Delhi on Saturday.

"People often mention that I come from a village, just like many others who share similar backgrounds. I understand the journey from humble beginnings. Therefore, I am hopeful that in the next 10-12 years, athletics in India will flourish. By the time we host the 2036 Olympics in Ahmedabad, I believe we will achieve remarkable success in athletics. Like every athlete, my aspirations are set on LA 2028," she stated, reflecting on her triumph in the women's 4x400m relay and the 4x400m Mixed Relay.

Meanwhile, during the one-day third leg of the Indian Athletics Series at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, top Indian athletes delivered outstanding performances.

The event was a delight for athletics enthusiasts as Animesh Kujur, an Asian championships bronze medallist, claimed the men's 100m title with an impressive time of 10.28 seconds. Tajinderpal Singh Toor, a two-time Asian Games champion, won the men's shot put title with a season-best throw of 21.03m. Additionally, promising high jumper Pooja set a personal record, clinching gold with a height of 1.90m.

The excitement peaked during the evening session as the top three male javelin throwers surpassed the 80m mark in a fierce competition for dominance.

Ultimately, it was Rohit Yadav who emerged victorious with an impressive throw of 82.17m. Sachin Yadav, a World Championships finalist, took second place at 81.95m, while Yashvir Singh secured third with a throw of 81.61m.