India, May 7 -- As first impressions go, Krishna Jayasankar comes across as an effervescent bundle of energy. She speaks in quick bursts, isn't shy about her insecurities, and is unabashed about her ambitions. Ebullience alone isn't her calling card though. The 23-year-old is also a pretty decent shot putter.

Decent enough to hold her own in the elite NCAA system. Decent enough to set the national indoor record thrice. And certainly decent enough to think she can be nearly as good outdoors without actually having much of a pedigree. Yet.

Come May 10, Krishna will be in action on her home turf in Chennai at the Indian Athletics Series. Later this month (May 22-25), she'll line up at the Federation Cup in Ranchi which will serve as the se...