Bengaluru: Union sports minister Vijay Goel, on Saturday, revealed that Rio bound athletes have been given the best preparations in their efforts to win laurels for the country at the Olympics beginning from Aug.4.
In the city on a visit to the Sports Authority of India, South Centre, Goel said: “I am very happy with the preparations for the Olympics. This is the first time 122 athletes, (the) biggest contingent ever from India, from 15 disciplines are heading for the Olympics,” said Goel.
“This time the preparations have been really good. We have given the athletes all the facilities. Best coaches, and foreign coaches when needed, technical ssupport, latest turf for hockey, physios, wherever needed, and we have given how much ever budget needed for our Podium Olympics scheme.
Goel then stressed the sports ministry had supported the aspiring athletes in their bid to the hilt. “Earlier the athletes used to go couple of days ahead of the meet, now they can leave as early as they want and get acclimatised and practice there,” said Goel.
“I believe that in Rio we will have a good performance because everyone has worked hard,” the minister added. He also revealed that there will be giant screens across the country, starting from Delhi and moving onto other states, where public can watch the Games. He also added that any medalist from Rio will also be eligible for Arjuna Awards and Khel Ratna despite the fact that the last date for the entries are over.
‘School Games athletes safe’
Goel also took the opportunity to announce that all the Indian athletes at the World School Games in Trabzon in Turkey are safe despite the unrest in the country.
“We have approximately 149 athletes participating in World School Games. I have ascertained from the organisers, which is School Games Federation of India, and have been informed that all the children are safe and according to my knowledge, the events are on. We have also contacted the family of the children and assured them of the safety of their wards. “The SAI with the help of SGFI have also set up a control room,” confirmed the minister.
