From fever to medals: PT Usha recalls Asian Games battle; Anju eyes strong Indian show

‘Competed from a sickbed back then, won two medals’

Indian Olympic Association President P.T. Usha recalls her Asian Games memories

We are all looking forward to the Asian Games, which begin today in Nagoya, Japan. Major sporting events like these give meaning to an athlete’s sporting life. The long wait and dreams of players are set to be fulfilled here.

The Asian Games have always been a sweet memory for me. It began with the 1982 Delhi Asiad. The Games were held the following month, after I had spent days undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kozhikode for severe fever. Despite the exhaustion, I was determined to compete. I managed to win two medals. That achievement at the age of 18 was a huge source of inspiration for me.

The 1986 Seoul Asiad remains the brightest chapter of my career. My name was associated with four of the five gold medals won by India, three individual golds and one in the relay. I also set Games records in all four events. Those medals helped India climb to fourth place in the medal tally.

I also participated in the 1994 Hiroshima Games. As the Games return to Japan, I carry many beautiful memories with me of relentless training, struggle, determination and endurance.

Today’s newcomers to sport have better facilities and opportunities than we had back then. Simply having the feeling that you are competing for the country is enough to bring out your best performance.

At the last Games, India’s medal tally crossed the century mark. I am not rushing to predict how many medals we will win this time. I am sure that if everyone delivers their best performance, it will translate into medals.

My warm wishes to everyone stepping out to compete.

‘Preparation is complete, victory is certain’

Asian Games gold medallist and Athletics Federation of India senior vice-president Anju Bobby George shares her expectations

The Indian contingent is arriving in Japan thoroughly prepared. Special training was provided in each event ahead of the Games, giving athletes and coaches confidence in their preparations.

Javelin star Neeraj Chopra’s injury is a disappointment for the team, particularly as he was among India’s strongest medal contenders. However, there are other athletes capable of winning medals in the javelin.

The team includes athletes capable of bringing home multiple medals in events such as the women’s long jump, high jump, relays and throws. There are high expectations from the athletics contingent.

The biggest challenge appears to be the weather in Japan, with rain and strong winds expected in some areas. There is also a possibility of flooding. How the athletes adapt to these conditions and tackle the challenges will be crucial.