I seem to be a rebellious person

Priya Khatun, a class VIII student of Garbhanga Secondary School, Keshavpur, Jessore, emerged as the country's best in cycling at the 52nd Winter National Sports Competition. Prothom Alo talks to Priya from a remote village about how she got interested in cycling, what her future plans are.

Q: When and how did you get interested in cycling?
Priya Khatun: I have been cycling since I was 7-8 years old. Basically I am interested in all kinds of sports. However, our school's sports teacher Shahdul Islam sir encouraged me to cycle more. And the mind is more interested from childhood; Ever since I found success in cycling.

Q: Did your parents encourage your interest?
Priya Khatun: Dad is the biggest encourager of cycling. Apart from studies, mother herself was good at sports and cultural activities as a child. Mother always wants me to excel in everything. My mother encouraged me to play a lot.

Q: What was the attitude of the neighbors about your interest in the game?
Priya Khatun: Many used to speak harshly while playing sports, cycling. They are talking on the phone now. They are proud of my success.
Q: What do you want to do in the future? what is your dream
Priya Khatun: Of course the target will be to achieve more success in cycling. I want to play in the national women's football team. This is my dream. I take football training at school. School principals and sports teachers said admissions will be made in the football training academy. I want to get success in life by playing sports.
Q: How does it feel when you ride a bike?
Priya Khatun: I feel like a protester when riding a bicycle!