Sirajdikhan: Zakia Sultana, a rising star in Bangladesh athletics, has expressed her ambition to participate in the Olympics following her gold medal victory in the shot put event at the 39th National Junior (age-level) Athletics championship. Her victory marks a significant milestone in her athletic career and reflects her aspirations for record-breaking success at the national level.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Zakia, who hails from Chandanadhur village in Sirajdikhan upazila, has shown remarkable dedication to sports from a young age. Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her father in 2009, Zakia's determination has driven her to excel in athletics. She has consistently performed well in national sports competitions, achieving success in events such as the javelin throw, shot put, and discus throw over the past few years.
In recent years, Zakia has demonstrated consistent improvement in her performance. In 2023, she secured first place in shot put and third in discus throw at a national competition organized by the Bangladesh Athletics Federation. Her success continued in 2024, where she claimed third place in shot put and second in javelin throw at the National Junior (age-level) athletics competition. Her most recent achievement came in 2025, when she clinched the gold medal in the iron shot put event at the same competition.
Despite the challenges she faced, including the responsibility of helping her family after her father's death, Zakia has managed to balance her academic pursuits with her passion for sports. She recently sat for the SSC examination from Malkhanagar High School and continues to train under her school sports teacher, Nitya Nanda Bhakta. Zakia credits her headmaster and sports teacher for their unwavering support and inspiration throughout her journey.
Zakia's determination and dedication to her sport have not gone unnoticed. Her school sports teacher, Nitya Nanda Bhakta, has recognized her potential since she was in the 8th grade, noting her achievements at the thana and district levels in various athletic events.
Looking ahead, Zakia remains focused on her ultimate goal of qualifying for the Olympics. She aspires to represent Bangladesh on the international stage and raise the national flag high on foreign soil, showcasing her talent and hard work to the world. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and ambition in the face of adversity.