Anuradha Biswal. Telegraph picture

In her career as an athlete, Olympian Anuradha Biswal made her state and country proud many a time. Her fans got another opportunity to congratulate the seven-time national record and one-time national games record holder as the state sports department felicitated her for having sprinted into her 25th year on the track and field.

With 84 gold, 52 silver and 40 bronze medals and participation in Sydney Olympics, 2002, Asian Games, 2006, and Commonwealth Games, 2010, Biswal is a legend. She spoke to The Telegraph about her journey on the field and off it.

How has the journey of 25 years with such an outstanding career record been for you?

I have worked hard, very hard. I have never taken any success, small or big, as my ultimate goal. I always focused on my next achievement. It was tough when I started as an athlete but today I am happy with all my decisions and the fact that hard work has paid off.

Today we see many girls in Odisha taking up sports. How was the situation when you started?

For me, it was a little easier to choose sports since my parents were sportspersons. But the challenge lay in lack of infrastructure, lack of financial support and the attitude of our society towards women two and a half decades ago. I was lucky to get great coaches such as Panchanan Gantayat, Arun Kumar Das and Yuri Alexander who were always there to provide care and support. But, the situation is much better now.

In what ways has there been a positive change in the field of sports in Odisha?

Though much is needed to be done, a lot has improved. From the number of sports hostels to facilities, recognition and encouragement, many things have changed for the better. Girls are also more confident today with better exposure.

You are an athlete, a wife, a mother and a professional working with Nalco. How do you keep the balance among your different roles?

I don’t think one needs to sit and plan how to keep balance. Everything takes care of itself when you do the right thing at the right time. I am lucky to have an immensely supportive husband and in-laws. My daughter Anshika has only added to my determination. She has also picked up athletics in the sub-junior category.

The senior-most athlete of the state, you are still going strong at 38. What is your next goal?

I want to continue in the 100m hurdles in whatever championship comes my way. That apart, I want to get into coaching as well.

What would you say about the future of track and field in Odisha?

Our young athletes are very sincere and dedicated. They have been doing very well at national and international events. Development in the field of sports through awards, incentives and right coaching and guidance can take them to new heights. We have a great talent pool in athletics in the state.