Participation of Hima Das in World relay is doubtful

Guwahati, May 10, 2019:

“Dhing Express’ Hima Das may not participate in the 4x400 metres World Relay to be held on May 13 at Yokohama, Japan as she has been diagnosed with spondylitis of the lumbar vertebrae, essentially the lower back.

The uncertainty of her participation is more as the spondylytis may cause her to go through a period of rest and rehabilitation complemented by medication.

As per reports, Hima Das has started training with the relay squad earlier this week and the squad currently based in Yokohama. But she needs to do some exercises and will also need some rest and rehabilitation as part of her recovery, as her progress is being monitored carefully.

Moreover, Deputy Chief National Coach, Radhakrishnan Nair was non-committal when asked if Hima would be fit enough to participate in the World Relays.

Hima is likely to travel with the 400 metre batch of athletes to Spala, Poland, for an overseas camp where she will continue with her rehabilitation.

The World Relays is an important event in terms of qualification for the World Championships which takes place in September to October and the next year’s Olympic Games.