‘My teachers and coaches cheer for me at every competition’

She runs every race of her life as the last one. Meet Samhita Rengarajan, an avid sportsperson currently studying in Class X at Apeejay School, Nerul. In a candid interview, she shares how athletics has taught her to respect her opponents for their timing and confidence.

Tell us about your recent athletic achievement.

I participated in the CBSE Cluster Athletics Meet held at Sanjay Ghodawat International School in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, where I won the bronze medal in the 800m race (Under-17 category) with a timing of 2 minutes 41 seconds.

How did you become interested in this sport?

As a young girl, I was always hyperactive and full of energy. That’s when my parents thought of channelling all that energy into something constructive and enrolled me in athletics training. What started as a way to use my energy soon became something I truly enjoy and am passionate about.

Who is your inspiration and why?

After the recent Paris Olympics, I have come to deeply admire American athlete Gabby Thomas. What inspires me is not only her exceptional running form and competitive spirit, but also the way she has built a strong academic career alongside sports. Thomas embodies this balance, and she motivates me to work hard to excel in my studies while striving to become a national-level athlete.

How did Apeejay School support your journey in athletics?

My school has been a strong foundation for my athletic career. My sports teachers have supported and cheered for me through numerous competitions, including the DSO School Games and Navi Mumbai Sports Association meets. They have always made sure to be present at my races and cheer for me, which has been a tremendous source of motivation. Their constant encouragement since my early years, right from Class IV, has played a major role in helping me pursue this sport with dedication and joy.

Share your training regime.

I train on alternate days — Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, due to school work, I focus on home-based exercises like core workouts and pace runs to build stamina. During the off-season, training focuses on strength and stamina, while in the competition season, it emphasises time-based repetitions, speed training, and running form improvement. Each session also includes warm-up, cool-down, recovery, and a well-maintained diet, helping me stay disciplined and consistently improve.

How has this sport honed your personality?

Every day is a new day, and every race is a new challenge. If the last race was my personal best, the next one should be even better. This mindset has not only improved my performance on the track but also influenced the way I approach challenges in everyday life. Moreover, maintain a spirit of healthy competition.

What are the challenges you face during competition and how do you overcome them?

As a 400m and 800m sprinter, the mental challenges are often more demanding than the physical ones. I often struggle with self-doubt, looking at the competition and thinking that the race is too tough or that I don’t stand a chance. Over time, I’ve learnt to overcome these challenges by reminding myself of years of hard work and dedication, and motivating myself to give my best in every race. These strategies help me stay focused, calm, and confident, allowing me to perform at my best regardless of the pressure or the competition.