'I have a lot of hard work to do to be up there'

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Bangalore: Nisha's long cherished dream of swimming for the country was achieved at Sydney, but the 18-year-old Indian mermaid, returned home with mixed feelings. She was unhappy that she could not clock even her personal best of 2:06 minutes, which she did to qualify for the 200 metres freestyle event at the Olympics. But she was happy that it provided her with a rich experience.

Nisha put down her dismal show to an uninspiring heat, where she had none to push her. But being there, was an eye opener. I know where exactly I stand in such a top class field .There is lot of hard work that I should do become an international class swimmer and I am going to concentrate on that," Nisha told Indiainfo.com in an exclusive, informal chat.

Nisha now trains in Perth City Swim Centre under the Australian coach, Bernie Mulory and the club has several Australian swimmers, including Rachel Harris . Nisha plans to return to Perth after month's long lay off . I badly need a break," she said.

After that it will be back to the pool at Perth. She is awaiting a Sports Authority of India (SAI) scholarship to continue her training. On her future plans, Nisha said the biggest goal will be next the Olympics, but the immediate tasks on hand is to do well in the Afro-Asian Championship scheduled to be held in Delhi in 2001.

She also plans to compete in the Australian senior championship early next year .I will also be looking to take part in a couple of international meets." The Indian swimmer, who had won the senior National title at an early age of 14 years in 1994, said she would skip this year's senior national championship, due to her commitments in Australia.