FORMER Fiji’s long-distance runner Shiri Chand commonly known as “Mushroom” won a gold medal in the masters 5000 metres in the 2017 Oceania Athletics Championships on Wednesday.
The 66-year-old Chand completed the race with a time of 24:55.62.
“I am happy to win a gold medal,” he said.
“During my prime days, I was one of the best when it came to long-distance races.
“Running has become my passion and I love to compete in the athletics.”
Chand, who is from Lautoka, said he ran for the first time when he was a 12-year-old and since then he made his career in athletics.
“Australia and Solomon Islands were too good in the competition.
“It was a very good experience in the 5000 metres.
“I am doing my own training and keeping myself fit and I have no regrets and I go to bed early and do not stay late in the night.”
Meanwhile, he will be running the Olympic Day fun run today.