Maana wins gold in Dubai

AHMEDABAD: Having set the pool afire at the national-level meets, Ahmedabad's teenage sensation Maana Patel has started her international career on a bright note. She has won a gold and a silver at the 4th Dubai International Aquatic meet, a FINA-approved qualification event for the 2nd Youth Olympic Games 2014.
In the 200m backstroke event for women in 14-15 years age group, Maana clocked 2.27.28 to stay ahead of Daniela Pinero (2.34.31) to clinch a gold medal in her maiden international appearance.Ekaterina Tareva (2.36.78) took the third place.
The 14-year-old Maana secured a silver in the 50m freestyle by clocking 28.41 seconds, just behind Nesrine Madjahed (28.15). Maana will also take part in 50m and 100m backstroke events.
Happy at winning her first medal for India, Maana told TOI from Dubai that this medal is the first step towards realizing her big dreams. "I am sad that I was not close to my best time but, nevertheless, wearing an India t-shirt and standing on the podium is a real joy," Maana said.
Maana's coach Kamlesh Nanavati is happy with her winning the gold medal but said his eyes are on Maana's timings. "Gold medal always brings joy but I will be happier if Maana qualifies for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. This will be her real test as she faces tough challenge from the top swimmers from around the world," Nanavati said.