Bhubaneswar, July 10: The loudest applause for Govindan Lakshmanan, who won a double gold at the 22nd Asian Athletics Championship, came from a young woman sitting amid the crowd during the felicitation ceremony of Indian medal winners by chief minister Naveen Patnaik today.

L. Suriya, who had taken part in the distance run, beamed with pride as her "brother" went up the stage. On the opening day, Lakshmanan won gold in the men's 5,000m and also another gold in the men's 10,000m event on the final day.

While Suriya finished fourth in the women's 5,000m race, she was elated with Lakshmanan's achievement. "He has made us proud. This is just the beginning, he has a long way to go," she said.

The 27-year-old from Sokkurani village in Pudukottai district of Tamil Nadu has been trained by senior athlete S. Loganathan. After losing his father at the age of 16, Loganathan has looked after him like a son.

For the 27-year old athlete, the "brother-sister" relationship with Suriya, who is Loganathan's daughter, is all about friendship, guidance and being partners in crime.

"We practise together a lot and help each other grow. We also have a lot of fun," said Suriya. Lakshmanan is quite concerned about the future of Suriya.

"She has not been keeping fit, so this tournament was not in her favour. But, she is going to train hard and play at international championships," he said with concern.

All praises for the Odisha government, Lakshmanan said: "The government here is very supportive and I hope every state, including Tamil Nadu, provides such encouragement to the athletes from their state."

Lakshmanan, who is serving in the army, had bagged silver in the men's 10,000m and bronze in the men's 5,000m at the 21st Asian Athletics Championship at Wuhan in China.

The victory also ensured him a place in the World Championships to be held in London next month.

Along with his coach, Olympian Surender Singh, he has devised a strategy. "My coach has given me special workouts. I am not allowed to use mobile phones and practise four hours each during morning and evening," said Lakshmanan.

The duo admitted to have made good friends during the championship here. "I was acquainted with Dutee and Srabani earlier, but now I know them closely. They have played great hosts along with their state," Suriya said.

"We will go back with beautiful memories," summed up Lakshmanan.