Asian Games Gold Medallist Vidya Ramraj receives warm welcome in Coimbatore

Coimbatore-based athlete Vidya Ramraj, who won a gold medal at the Asian Games, returned to Coimbatore by flight and received a warm welcome from supporters and well-wishers.
Minister Ananth and his family members honoured Vidya Ramraj with a shawl and congratulated her on her achievement.
Speaking to reporters, Vidya Ramraj said she was extremely happy to have broken the long-standing record associated with P.T. Usha. She thanked the Tamil Nadu Government and the Sports Department for their support.
Vidya Ramraj, who is currently employed with the Railways, said the support extended by the Central and State governments had helped her reach this level.
She also acknowledged the support of her coach and said she had worked harder for the recent competition than in previous events.
She said she had been training since 2023 with the aim of breaking the record.
Rather than focusing solely on winning medals, improving her timing had been her primary objective, she said.
On her Olympic aspirations, Vidya Ramraj said India still had to compete at a higher level internationally and that her latest achievement did not give her complete satisfaction.
She said the Tamil Nadu Sports Minister had continued to extend full support to her and advised young athletes to trust their parents and coaches and train with dedication.
Vidya Ramraj also stressed the important role played by coaches in an athlete’s success.
She said recognition given to athletes should also be extended to their coaches.
She added that the issue had been brought to the attention of the Chief Minister, who had assured that coaches would also be honoured when medals were presented to athletes.