Imranur Rahman brought laurels for the country after winning gold in 60m sprint at the ongoing Asian Indoor Athletics Championship in Kazakhstan. It is by far the best achievement by any Bangladeshi at a major continental athletics competition. The 29-year old sprinter, who lives in England, has been representing Bangladesh in the past one year. He also participates in national championships where he is two-time running fastest man. The London-born athlete recently gave Dhaka Tribune an interview prior to the week he stormed into history.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Sheffield, United Kingdom.
How was your childhood?
I had a normal childhood. Enjoyed being with my family and playing different sports.
When did you first visit Bangladesh?
At the young age of three.
Which sport you did play initially?
Football.
When did you start athletics?
I started at a later age. Maybe I was 19 years old. I was told by a friend to try out track and sprints. From there the journey started.
Why did you want to be in athletics?
Something I enjoy and hopefully can be successful nationally and internationally. Inshallah.
How was your first experience on athletics track?
First track experience was great with a local club in Sheffield. They showed me a basic training program.
What kind of support did you receive as an athlete?
There are fields, tracks and gyms more available now than before.
Also Read: Sprinter Imranur makes history by winning gold at Asian Indoor Athletics
Why did you choose to represent Bangladesh?
Because I'm Bangladeshi, I love the people and the culture.
Did you assume earlier that you would become the fastest man of Bangladesh?
No, I didn't think this, but I was confident I can compete with the best athletes in Bangladesh.
What is your take on Bangladesh athletics?
I think that it's moving very well, the latest plans of Sheikh Kamal inter school and madrasah, shows intent from the federation.
What do you do now?
Work as well as training.
When do you practice in your daily routine?
Training, work and then gym most days. Exhaustive schedule.
What's your profession other than athletics?
I'm a financial accountant. It's a full-time job.
Isn't it difficult to manage both?
Very difficult to manage my schedule. But it is required as I have family commitment and more. I try my best to train efficiently. But it does overlap with work. At times I am rushed for schedule. Not best prepared in training always due to this.
Who is your coach?
Steve Fudge. He is London based specializing in sprints.
Who is your inspiration?
My family.
How did your parents help you?
They always tell me to do my best regardless of results.
How was contact made with Bangladesh Athletics Federation?
General secretary Abdur Rokib Montu met up with me during the London games around 2017-2018. He told me to get involved with Bangladesh Athletics.
What does athletics mean to you?
Currently athletics is really important. I want to do well for myself, my family, friends and whole of Bangladesh.
Do you still play football?
I don't play football due to athletics commitment.
Who is your favorite Bangladeshi athlete?
My favorite Bangladeshi athlete is Shakib al Hasan. He has demonstrated to the world how good he is, his capabilities and Bangladeshi individuals.
What's your goal?
I want to do well in the Asian Indoor games, medal hopefully, and same with South Asian Games.
Any specific target in South Asian Games?
My aim in the South Asian Games is to win gold. With good progression there is a possibility.
Profile
Born: July 5, 1993
Place of birth: Sheffield, England
Mother: Shummi Akhtar
Father: Alaur Rahman
Hometown in Bangladesh: Jalalpur, Dakhin Surma, Sylhet
School: King Ecgbert School, Sheffield
University: University of Birmingham
Team/club: City of Sheffield, Bangladesh Army
Coach: Steve Fudge
Events: 60m and 100m sprint, 200m sprint occasionally
