Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, on Sunday, remarked that the journey to bigger stardom has simply started for the Rio Olympic medalists, badminton player P.V. Sindhu, wrestler Sakshi Malik and gymnast Dipa Karmakar.
“You have all done the entire country proud. We all know how focused you were in the run-up to the Olympics during preparatory phase and even in Rio also where you were not accessible to remind about the intensity in the preparations,” Sachin stated at the presentation of BMW cars to the three professional athletes and likewise the chief nationwide badminton coach Pullela Gopi Chand.
“Now is the time to go for gold in the next Olympics and we are all with you to see many more wonderful moments in your career. Keep going and keep winning medals,” Tendulkar said.
Responding to the felicitation, Sakshi thanked all those who showed their love and assured to go for gold in next the Tokyo Olympics.
“I am grateful to JSW, Railways, Sachin Sir for all their best wishes,” she stated.
Gymnast Dipa Karmakar was crisp in her response thanking all for the assistance and motivation.
Regional girl Sindhu remembered that when Sachin presented a car to her last time he promised to present another one if she wins an Olympic medal. “My dream has come true and I thank all and especially Gopi Sir,” she said. “Definitely, I will try my best to keep winning laurels at the highest level,” she included.
Gopi thanked Sachin for enhancing the celebration and stated the latter was always a big source of inspiration before, during and after the Rio Olympics.
Thanking V. Chamundeswaranath (also known as Chamundi in sporting circles) for taking the initiative in presenting the automobiles. “He was also instrumental in presenting cars on 13 previous occasions to outstanding sportspersons.”
“It is not these cars which matter a lot. His small gestures in sponsoring a knee cap or soul or a shuttle racket to the need have always been very encouraging,” Gopi stated.
