Summary:
Rajkot, Oct 7 (PTI) Gymnast-turned-diver Medhali Redkar bagged the gold medal in the 1M Springboard contest at the National Games, here on Friday.
Once a gymnast, Medhali made a switch to diving after her coaches suggested that she try her hand in the sport as both require similar core strength and acrobatic abilities.
Though unsure, Medhali decided to give it a try.
Seven years later, the Mumbaikar ended state-mate Hrutika Shriram"s stranglehold on the gold medals with a total of 171.50 points.
"I had made the team in only one event, and since it was the last event, the fatigue of waiting was setting in.
But I worked on that with my psychologist and came close to my best ever to win the medal," said Medhali in a release.
Incidentally, Medhali had bagged a bronze medal in the 3M Springboard event at the just concluded Senior Nationals in Guwahati and had finished fifth in the 1M Springboard event.
"I had complete confidence in my abilities.
Yes, there was some anxiety in my mind going into the competition.
But I worked on focusing only on my routine today," added Medhali, who is also a practising physiotherapist.
The 24-year-old, who had won multiple national-level medals in gymnastics, has been successfully balancing her academics and sports over the years.
"I never wanted to restrict myself just to academics or sports.
It means I need to work extra hard and my social life and friendships suffer.