Guwahati, January 15: Gujarat's Sonal Dodiya was ecstatic after she won gold in the 44kg category judo competition at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) in Guwahati. The young athlete said that her parents had worked day and night to ensure that she is provided with all the facilities.

"We are not a very affluent family. My father is a rickshaw driver and works at the farm in our house. My mother works at the farm and takes care of all the work at home as well. It's been quite difficult for my family to support my judo career. When I wanted to participate in selection trials, my father worked day and night to help me get selected," said Sonal. Khelo India Youth Games: Aim to Win Medal in All KIYG Events, Says Cyclist Alena Reji.

The judo athlete, who clinched gold in the last edition of the games as well, said that the tournament is fantastic for young athletes.

"These games is a great tournament for us. Every year, talented athletes are included in the Khelo India scheme and are provided with facilities," she said.

Gujarat has been making rapid strides in judo in the last few years and Sonal was quick to point out the rise of the sport in her state.

"Gujarat didn't win too many medals in judo. But as the sport grew in the state, we started winning medals in state competitions. Earlier, everyone aimed for bronze in nationals, but now we have gold medallists from Gujarat," she added.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 15, 2020 03:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).