Quotes from Hima Das

I have the love and blessings of Indians and my family and I have faith in my own hard work and training. That is all I need.

When I was in Class II, we used to walk about 5 km. to school. I did not know of Olympics or even athletics then. One day, a friend went in a car and left me behind. I was so angry, I wanted to run and outrace the car. I ran so fast that I tripped and fractured my knee.

My attitude is different. And no one understands me the way my friends do.

My role model was Sachin Tendulkar as a kid. I feel very proud that I have been able to follow his footsteps and become a UNICEF ambassador like him.

Everything happens at one step at a time.

Even Sachin used to get ducks during his career. There are ups and downs in every athlete's career.

I hope I will get a chance to compete in the Olympics.

I know my family's condition and how we struggled. But the Almighty has something for everybody.

I used to run barefoot in my village some time back. Now, I have a branded shoe with my name on it.

People expect a lot for me now, and I will achieve that.