From winning her first medals at the age of five to representing India on international tracks, Siya Sawant’s story is a powerful tale of talent, perseverance, and purpose.
A sprinter, student, and symbol of the rising generation of Indian athletes, Siya has proved that age is no bar when passion leads the way. In this in-depth interview, she opens up about her journey through local tracks in Mumbai to global arenas in Dubai and Lima and what it means to chase greatness with both feet firmly planted on the ground.
A Race That Started at Five
“Honestly, all credit goes to my parents for enrolling me in a summer camp,” Siya begins. “I was always a hyperactive kid who loved running around. In my first race in Pune, I won three medals — one gold and two silvers in the under-6 category. That was probably the moment I fell in love with the sport.”
This early exposure sparked a passion that only grew stronger with time. While most children her age were discovering cartoons and crayons, Siya was already sprinting her way into podium finishes.
The Mumbai Hustle: City of Dreams and Challenges
Growing up in Mumbai, Siya experienced firsthand the grind that defines the city. “It’s hard — training early in the morning, rushing to school, dodging traffic, and facing the heat,” she recalls. “But no pain, no gain.”
Yet, it was not all struggle. Siya is quick to acknowledge the tremendous support she received. “My school, Lakshadam High School, and college, IISM, were so supportive. From giving me permission to come in late or take exams later to friends helping me with missed assignments — everyone played a part. And, of course, my coach Ravi Sir has mentored me throughout.”
Khelo India 2024: Turning Point of Confidence
“Khelo India 2024 was surreal,” Siya says with a smile. “Winning gold in the 100m and silver in the 200m— it gave me the confidence that I could achieve anything if I put my mind to it. I had trained so hard with my coach, and the results just validated that we were on the right path.”
It wasn’t just the medals that mattered. It was a moment of self-belief — the realization that she belonged among the best.
Representing India: Asian Juniors & World Juniors
Being selected to represent India in the Asian Juniors in Dubai and World Juniors in Lima was a proud milestone for Siya. “It was my first time competing internationally, and it was incredible. We all trained, ate, and stayed together, and I learned so much just by observing.”
“What struck me was how similar our warm-ups and drills were. But there’s a difference in training patterns. Access to data-driven tools, qualitative analysis, and machines — that’s what sets the top-tier countries apart.”
Strength, Recovery, and Evolution
Post-2023, Siya made a conscious effort to improve her strength and technique. “I spent a lot of time in the gym this off-season. The focus was on building strength and ensuring that it translated to the track.”
Recovery became another major area of focus. “Recovery is often overlooked, but it’s crucial. Strength without recovery is incomplete. From better nutrition and hydration to proper rest — every little detail matters.”
Studying Sports Science: Learning From Within
As a student at IISM pursuing a degree in Sports Science, Siya finds her academics and athletics complement each other. “It’s a wonderful course. I’ve learned about anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology — everything that helps me understand how the body works.”
She lights up when describing how this knowledge translates to her training. “Now every physio session is more interesting because I understand what’s being said. I know which muscle connects to what and why a particular exercise helps. It makes me feel more in control of my own progress.”
Support from Welspun
Really grateful to Welspun to support me, sports is an expensive commitment with multiple requirements like training, nutrition , travelling & coaching and any kind of external support is valuable in the foundational years.
Injuries: Setbacks That Teach
No athlete’s journey is complete without facing injuries. Siya is candid about her experiences. “Injuries are part of an athlete’s life. You can’t avoid them completely, but you can prevent reoccurrences.”
Having faced a hamstring strain recently, she shares her recovery strategy. “Strengthening specific muscles, avoiding overtraining, staying hydrated, and eating well — all of these are essential. Injuries may set you back temporarily, but they teach you resilience.”
Staying Motivated: The Inner Game
“Sometimes, all you need is a break from the world. Just spending time with family or hanging out with my best friends helps reset my mind. Or I’ll listen to music ”
When it comes to competition, her mental preparation is just as rigorous as her physical training. “Visualization and meditation help me stay centered. Before a race, I go over everything — my start, acceleration, and finish. I rehearse the race in my mind until I can feel it.”
Goals: Short-Term Gains, Long-Term Glory
“In the short term, I want to keep improving my personal bests in the 100m and 200m. Long term, I dream of representing India at more international meets, hearing our national anthem from the top of the podium.”
She also aims for the biggest global stages. “The Asian Games and the Olympics — yes, absolutely. To reach that level, I need to get stronger and faster, and recovery needs to be a priority. Every small detail matters.”
Reflections and What Could Have Been
Looking back, Siya says she wouldn’t change a thing. “I’d just tell six-year-old Siya: Trust yourself and the people you love. There’ll be ups and downs, but keep going.”
“If not an athlete, I’d have become a doctor. I always loved biology and science, but my path changed. Thankfully, I still get to work with the body in sports science.”
Rapid Fire
Favorite athlete: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce
Preferred training music: Hip hop
Pre-race ritual: Visualization
Dream competition venue: India hosting the Olympics
One word that describes you: Ambitious
Social Media & Inspiring the Next Generation
Though she once stayed away from social media, Siya has started sharing her journey. “I now post my gym and track videos — it gives people a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes. I also love narrating my track experiences. If that inspires even one young athlete, it’s worth it.”
Siya’s story is far from over. With a drive that’s as fierce as her speed on the track, she’s racing toward a future filled with promise and podiums. Whether she’s sprinting on the track or studying in class, Siya exemplifies what it means to be an athlete in every sense of the word.
Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.
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