Ms. Namita Nayyar:
How did you feel before and after your memorable win in the 400m at 2012 IAAF World Indoor Championships in 50.79 seconds at Istanbul, Turkey?
Ms. Sanya Richards-Ross:
I remember wanting to win the title so badly. I hadn’t run indoors in 6 years to that point and I wanted to start the 2012 season off right. I was a little nervous but confident! After the win I was overjoyed. I don’t take any of my victories for granted and was truly grateful to be able to check that box on my resume. It was a blessing.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
You had injuries in 2010 and kept you out of running races. Then you had toe surgery and what should have been a two-month recovery was seven months.
You had hallux rigidus. Two bones in right toe were close and they would rub. It’s been a problem for five or six years and it got progressively worse. For the past few years, you been taping it and taking shots to be able to compete. You finally had surgery to run pain-free. How you were able to overcome this physical injury/setback and what advice you can give to fellow sports person in a similar situation?
Ms. Sanya Richards-Ross:
It has not been easy. It’s really hard being sidelined by an injury when you feel like your best days are still ahead of you. However this setback has only made me realize how much I love to run and given me new motivation to be my best. I would say to someone going through a similar situation not to give up. It’s in overcoming obstacles that we find our greatest strengths.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
You won gold at the 2012 London Olympics in 400m by overtaking the competition in the last 50 meters of the race. Elaborate your experience on this exceptional performance?
Ms. Sanya Richards-Ross:
It was my absolute dream come true. I was denied in 2008 and it was the lowest point of my career. I worked harder than ever in 2012 and when it paid off it that made me the happiest girl in the world. I remember the last 50 meters telling myself “I REFUSE TO LOSE,” over and over. The race really slowed down for me and the line seemed to take forever to come but the feeling of pure joy upon crossing the line is hard to describe.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
In 2011 you were inducted into The University of Texas’ Hall of Honor. You won the 2009 and 2006 IAAF World Female Athlete of the Year, Jesse Owens Award Winner, Humanitarian Athlete of the Year 2003 NCAA 400m champion and USATF Youth Athlete of the Year. What responsibility this award bestow upon you in your future efforts and activities in the field of athletics?
Ms. Sanya Richards-Ross:
It is always a great feeling to be recognized for your efforts. However I do understand that awards bring tremendous responsibility. I am happy to be an ambassador of my sport and the University of Texas. I do my best to be a great role model and a good example for those that will come after me.
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