In an exclusive conversation with News18, IOA President and Indian athletics legend PT Usha shared her insights into the remarkable progress Indian athletics has witnessed in recent years, marking a significant presence on the global stage.
Usha began by expressing her delight at the exceptional success of India’s star javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, at the World Athletics Championships in Hungary. She described Neeraj as a tremendous source of inspiration for all athletes and a gold medalist who was expected to shine on the world stage. With athletes like Neeraj, India has firmly established its presence on the international medal tally.
Usha also conveyed her hopes for Neeraj’s continued success in upcoming events, especially the Asian Games. His consistent achievements, including victories at the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and Asian Games, make him a force to be reckoned with.
The IOA Chief went on to praise the men’s 4x400m relay team, which secured a commendable fifth-place finish in Budapest. She acknowledged the immense challenge of running the relay in under 3 minutes, highlighting the determination and effort of the athletes who represented India on the global stage.
Reflecting on her own journey, PT Usha emphasized the vast differences between her era and the current state of Indian athletics. She vividly remembered the lack of infrastructure and exposure during her career, which posed significant challenges.
Today, the scenario has transformed dramatically. Usha emphasized that top athletes now enjoy access to world-class facilities, including nutrition, gyms, and injury rehabilitation. She particularly highlighted the role of Reliance’s hospital for athletes in Mumbai, which has played a crucial role in the rehabilitation process.
Increased exposure, according to Usha, has been a game-changer. Drawing from her own experiences, she pointed out how a lack of exposure and experience cost her a medal by a mere one-hundredth of a second.
Usha also acknowledged the vital support from the government and sponsors, emphasizing the significance of social media in creating awareness and interest in Indian athletics. The presence of social media has brought athletes into the spotlight, garnering both government support and corporate sponsorship. In conclusion, PT Usha expressed her optimism and hope for a strong showing by the national contingent at the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games. She believes that India’s athletes will shine brightly and bring home a substantial medal haul, building on the remarkable progress Indian athletics has made on the global stage.https://www.sportiwe.com/
