Famously known as ‘Dhing Express’, Hima Das is a 23-year-old sprinter from Assam who has made a name for herself in the world of athletics. She holds the India National record in the 400 meters race category, clocking in at 50.79 seconds during the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia. Hima made history by becoming the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal in a track event at the IAAF world U20 championship. Her exceptional achievements in athletics have earned her the prestigious appointment as a Deputy Superintendent of Police under the Sports Policy. With her impressive track record, Hima Das fits into the description of a winner, as stated by Mia Hamm, “There are always new, grander challenges to confront. A true winner will embrace each.”
Birth of a Sports Prodigy
Hima Das was born into a humble family in the Kandhulimari village in Assam. She was the youngest of 5 siblings, and from a young age, Hima displayed an unyielding passion for sports. Her initial interest was in football, but she soon realized that the opportunities for women’s football in India were limited.
However, fate had different plans for Hima. During her time at an inter-school camp, Hima’s talent caught the attention of her physical education teacher, who convinced her to pursue a career in sprinting after being impressed by her determination and punctuality and seeing her win every race, and Hima didn’t disappoint.
Hima worked tirelessly towards her goal and quickly established herself as a rising star in the world of athletics, and the rest is history.
Achievements of Hima Das
With a burning passion for sprinting, she became the first Indian Sprinter to win a gold medal at an international track event, the World U20 Championships 2018 in Finland. Her win in the 400 meters finals was not just a victory for herself but a triumph for her nation, as she proudly carried the Indian flag while making her way to the top of the podium.
Her glory did not stop there. In the same year, Hima participated in the Commonwealth Games at Gold Coast, Australia, and competed in the 400 and 4×400 meters relay, displaying her unmatched skills and athleticism. She then broke the Indian National Record by qualifying for the 400 meters Final at the Asian Games, with an excellent timing of 51.00 seconds.
Her performances in 2018 made her the Record Queen of Indian athletics, and Hima continued her winning streak in 2019, winning gold in the 200 meters at the Poznan Grand Prix in Poland and the Kladno Meet in the Czech Republic. She also won the 3rd and 5th 400 meters race in Nove Mesto, showcasing her versatility as a sprinter.
Hima’s journey is an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. From a small village in Assam to the global athletics stage, Hima Das has proven that nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it. Her success story will continue to inspire generations, and she will always be remembered as one of the greatest athletes in Indian history.
