Mubassina Mohammed’s family, especially her mother Dubina Bano, knew that her eldest daughter would prosper in track and field. What she did not know was how quickly she would rise to the challenge.

All of 19, Mubassina from Minicoy Island (Lakshadweep) will become a full India international when she takes part in the women’s long jump final at the ongoing South Asian Senior Athletics Championships in Ranchi on Sunday.

What started as a dream from a mere 200m mud track in Minicoy, Mubassina’s journey towards becoming the first-ever Indian track and field international from Lakshadweep is inspirational.

Running came naturally to her as her father Mohammed — who plucks coconuts and runs a small tea hotel — would take part in mini marathons to win prize money. Her mother wanted her to be a

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