India must host global athletic competitions regularly

Neeraj Chopra. Pic/AFP

Indian athletics star Neeraj Chopra wants the country to host global events in the next few years to raise the profile of the nation in world athletics.

Reports stated that India is set to bid for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, but Chopra said the country can host other global competitions of a smaller scale before that.

Chopra reasons that smaller events will keep fans interested in athletics. It will also allow Indian track and field stars to compete with the cream, consistently.

While the scenario has changed to some extent now, with our athletes getting some support and being able to travel outside to compete, much more needs to be done.

One recalls athletes in the '90s running against the ‘clock' as they had beaten all opponents in India, but could not go overseas to train or compete. We now have to start listening to our athletes, weighing the merit of their suggestions and trying as much as possible to follow them. We can hold smaller competitions so that our sportspersons have consistent exposure to athletes from outside. Sport is physical but it has a mental aspect too. Learning about how your opponent thinks, trying to not just outrace but even outsmart them and tactical practice makes a huge difference. It will also chip away at the intimidation factor of international competition or the extreme nerves that players may have on the global stage. This is also how you grow a legion of athletics fans and a dedicated following. Fans are the lifeblood of sport; a full stadium means money, translating to sponsors and ticket sales and huge motivation.

Maybe this nation, which aspires for greater sporting strength and visibility, needs to work on making this happen.