Indian athletes return after supershow in Guangzhou

Indian sportspersons, who put up a scintillating show at the just concluded Asian Games , returned to New Delhi today with fans and supporters giving them a grand welcome.

The first batch, including athletes, kabaddi players and basketball players, arrived by flight number CZ 359, which landed at 8.55pm at the IGI international airport.

Hundred of fans gathered here to welcome the Indian contingent, which registered its best ever performance at the Games in Guangzhou by winning a record 64 medals, including 14 gold.

The athletes were garlanded when they came out of Terminal 3 amidst deafening sound of drums.

The fans also showered rose petals on the players when they made their way out of airport.

Indian Olympic Association joint secretary Lalit Bhanot, who was also secretary general of the CWG organising committee, was among the officials who received the players.

India's athletes put on a terrific show in the track and field events, where they won titles in 400m hurdles (both men's and women), 1,000m run and 4X400m relay.

Memorable wins were recorded by Indian tennis player Somdev Devvarman and shooter Ronjan Sodhi.

Underfire IOA president Suresh Klamadi was not among those who returned in the first batch.

The second batch of the athletes is due to reach Delhi by 11pm.

India's sprint queen in her days, PT Usha lauded India's performance while talking with the waiting media.

"I am happy that India produced its best performance at the Asian Games. Athletes really did well, I am happy for that," she said.

Asked about her protege Tintu Luka, who won a bronze in 800m run, Usha said,"I am not disappointing with Luka not winning gold. Age is on her side, she is quite young. Also she could not give a final kick in the last 100m because of a hamstring problem."