Manipur’s Ronaldo Singh dreams of Olympic glory

Our Correspondent

Imphal, July 2 (EMN): Laitonjam Ronaldo Singh, who scripted history becoming the first Indian cyclist to win silver in the senior category (sprint event) of the recently concluded Asian Track Championship, is dreaming of becoming an Olympian.

“Whatever I have done in my riding career so far is part of my journey as I’m dreaming of the Olympics”, said Ronaldo, who is all set to prepare for the upcoming practice session for the Commonwealth Games.

Reacting to the recent competitions, the cyclist, who won a number of medals in the national and international competition, said that the never-give-up attitude helps in achieving in the race.

When asked why only few athletes are taking up cycling, this 20-year-old athlete who took part in a brief training session on swimming and diving in Imphal before joining cycling felt that that cycling event is an expensive event.

But in my case, I think I got necessary support considering my potential, said Ronaldo, a resident of Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapan in Manipur’s Imphal East district.

Ronaldo joined the Sports Authority of India (SAI) national centre of excellence in New Delhi in June 2016 after he was selected during a talent hunt in April 2016.

“After I joined the national camp, we had the opportunity to join training sessions with well known international athletes during our overseas training”, the cyclist said.

In the recently concluded five-day Asian Track Cycling Championship (June 18-22) in New Delhi, Ronaldo, whose performance is now considered the best among any cyclist in a continental championship, won a silver and two bronze medals.