Khade hopes to get another medal in Asian Games
By IANSTuesday, November 16, 2010
GUANGZHOU - Virdhawal Khade, who Tuesday became the first Indian swimmer in 24 years to win a medal in the Asian Games, said he is gunning for another medal here.
The 19-year-old made history by clinching a bronze in the men’s 50m Butterfly. Khajan Singh’s silver at the 1986 Games was the last medal for the Indians in Asiad swimming. The only Indian swimmer to win a gold medal so far is Sachin Nag in the 100 metres freestyle at the inaugural Asian Games in Delhi in 1951.
Khade made up for his disappointing fourth-place finish in 50m freestyle Monday by clocking 24.31 seconds for a third-place finish at the Aoti Aquatics Centre.
“I am over the moon right now,” Khade said. “Yesterday’s result gave me great confidence and I knew I could take my performances to the next level and win a medal for India”.
Khade will be competing for the 100m freestyle event Wednesday. “I am looking forward to tomorrow and I am confident of a good showing and another medal.”
Khade’s coach Nihar Ameen said he lived up to his talent. “It’s a big day for Indian swimming and an affirmation of his talent. I have always told everyone that Veer is a world class athlete and today he has proven his worth.”
His performance will also see him rise in World rankings.
