There are many people who dream about representing their state for nationals and only for a few of them it would come true. Luckily, I was one of them. When I was in 6th standard, I represented Mumbai region in skating. I was very excited as this was my dream, for which I worked very hard. Somedays, I woke up early just to practice and make myself better than others so that I could make everyone who supported me proud. I still remember that I had only 3 days left for me to leave for nationals and I went for practice at 5 am. I returned at 11 am, after which my mom beat me like anything.
So we started to Chandigarh on 16th September 2006 at 2:30 pm. I was excited and sad both at the same time. Excited, as I was going out for the first time without my parents but sad as my mom was so worried that she was crying. As my bus started to the railway station, I forgot all my emotions and sadness. I starting thinking about whom all I will meet in my journey or how my competition will be. Also, as I was the youngest one to represent my state, all the eyes were on me. I reached there on 19th September 2006 at 6 am. After checking in, I started worrying as there was a match after a few days and I wanted to show all of them why I deserve to be there.
Finally, the day came where I can show my dedication and passion for what I love SKATING. As I reached the venue and entered inside the skating rink I got scared seeing all those people who was also there to participate. I had no idea that 21 states will be there and 2 participants from each age group, which means a total of 42 participants in the competition. And out of these 42 I had to prove that I am the best. As they lined us up in groups of 11 for heats, I could hear my own heartbeat. But, I was determined to make it and I was eagerly waiting for that moment. As the heat started, I got to first positon which boosted my confidence and gave me more energy for my finals. On 9th October 2006 we had to be there at sharp 10:00 am. Again I could hear my heartbeat, as we lined up for finals my legs started shivering. But somehow I remembered all the lessons from my trainer and my sports teacher and focused on that and got 3rd position. I was not happy as it was not my personnel best, so I started crying. I called my mom and then she told me softly that not everyone can win a battle, but when you’ll go for the next time, you will be happier after winning because that will be the victory after failure. I got another opportunity to participate in the nationals in 2007 where I got 2nd position but I was still not satisfied. I thought maybe I have not done enough hard work so again I tried in 2008. This is where I finally got first position among 23 states and qualifies for SGFI- Sports and Games Federation of India. But while doing practice for that I got injured and I broke my index finger and left leg. I still wanted to go to Delhi, but my parents did not allow me. I was unhappy, but at the same time I realized how much they care for me.This was the first journey of my life. I cannot forget all the moments where I learnt how to be strong and believe yourself and to be alone without your parents. I was a kid but still I got confidence that now I can do anything whatever I want. After coming back to school I was more dedicated to my dream and my passion. I was happy that my dream came true to represent my state and was happy and felt proud that I was the youngest kid to represent my state.
Tanuja Sharma
25 September 2018
