Pullouts from Commonwealth Games may be because of scheduling: PT Usha

Our time has come. Leave aside whatever is being said about Delhi, I would say they all are plain stupid rumours. The situation in Delhi is quite normal and very friendly. Believe me, all the facilities are world class. It is just about conducting the event successfully now. One should understand that CWG is no lesser event. For countries like ours and others who are a part of the Commonwealth group, this is one of the biggest multi-sports event.

Like Olympics this also comes once in four years and a medal here brings the participants a lot of accolades and remuneration too. Look at the line up in athletics, especially in sprint, middle-distance, long distance and hurdles - the world’s top-10 athletes are going to participate. At the end of it a true athlete will
always aim for podium finish and look to set records.

For instance, my ward Tintu Luka is an emerging star in the 800m. Our focus is on bettering her personal best and winning a medal with an eye on the Asians too. To keep bettering her timing below two minutes consistently is the key. And mind you CWG is very an important meet for all the athletes, at least, among the Commonwealth nations.

It is true that some big names have pulled out, but most of them are either nursing injuries or out of form. Also CWG’s scheduling is such that it comes near the end of the IAAF season, so that may be another reason for the pull outs. The competition will be very tight. But in certain events like discus throw, shot put, long and triple jump in athletics, shooting, weightlifting, wrestling, badminton, tennis the level would certainly be low. India should make the most of it in these sports.

–As told to Gautam Sheth