Who is Manjit Singh? India's Asian Games surprise gold medallist and his fairytale journey

At the ongoing Asian Games in Indonesia, Indian athletes have surprised many by winning medals in sports that they've traditionally not done well in.

One of the big plus points for Indian sports has been their performance in track & field sports, and one man who has come from nowhere into the limelight is Manjit Singh.

Singh won gold in the 800m race, pipping compatriot Jinson Johnson, who was expected to win a medal at the Games.

Manjit began running at the age of five, influenced by his father, who competed in the shot put and discus throw events in Narwana, Haryana.

Manjit's story has been one of trials and tribulations. He had never won an international event, let alone a gold medal prior to his incredible achievement at the Asian Games and only qualified to be a part of team India after finishing second in the national trials last year, finishing behind Johnson.

His sports contract with ONGC wasn't renewed, and he had to fund his own training, approximately Rs 30, 000 a month, without a job.

The 28-year-old worked hard and was determined to reach his goal of winning a medal. He almost did not make it to the final of the 800m at the Asian Games, qualifying by a narrow margin.

Even in the final, it seemed like his fellow Indian, Johnson would take the gold medal, but a late surge from Manjit gave him the win, and a lifelong dream accomplished.

What makes Manjit's dedication to his sport and dream even more admirable is that he still hasn't seen his five-month child, as he was training away from home over the last few months!

Manjit will compete in the 1500m race at the ongoing Asian Games and will dream of snagging another medal to complete his fairytale journey.