Vikas Rana, 31, daughter of a farmer in Haryana has created history by winning the maiden gold medal for the country in cross country skiing championship in Germany. Rana, who hails from Sukhain Khurd village in the Uchana area of Jind in Haryana, has also led India in the Asian Games. She won the gold sporting a ski band on her head that read ‘Mahakaal’.

“I won the gold in the five kilometre cross country skiing held in Germany on December 31. This was the first-ever medal in such a tournament. I worked really hard and trained at Gulmarg in Kashmir. I am really delighted to see the applause I get from the country.

“I am a devout believer of God Shiva and I believe he helped in winning the tournament. That’s why I sported the Mahakaal band,” said Rana.

Vikas Rana won four gold, one silver and four bronze medals at the national games.

Rana’s father, Ompal is a farmer, and her mother is a homemaker. She started her skiing practice at a young age and practised most of the time in Gulmarg.

“Being from a humble financial background posed a problem but with the support of my family, friends, coaches and the facilities provided by the sports ministry, I overcame all the problems. I dedicated all my time to practice. A medal comes with a lot of preparation and years of planning. I am really thankful to my country for giving me an opportunity to prove myself,” said Rana.