Harshita, a rising young talent in Indian cycling

Harshita Jakhar has achieved something rare in Indian cycling this season.

- Avishek Roy

NEW DELHI: The 18-year-old rider won a second consecutive bronze medal at the Asian (Junior) Road Cycling Championships in February.

A medal in a road cycling event that tests endurance and speed in tough conditions is a feat unmatched in Indian cycling. Harshita first finished on the podium in individual time trial at the Asian junior meet in Kazakhstan last year, repeating it this year in Phitsanulok Province, Thailand.

In individual time trial, riders race solo and their position is decided on their timing, the fastest finishing first. On track, she fared better, winning four medals in junior events at the February Asian Track Cycling Championships in Malaysia. The two meets were scheduled within a fortnight, and Harshita in between even found time to come to India for her 12th exams.