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S. Geetha and P. Shankar's success has paved the way for talented youngsters
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PHOTO: K. RAMESH BABU
SHOWING THE WAY S. Geetha's feats are inspirational
The success attained by athletes from Andhra Pradesh like S. Geetha, P. Shankar and J. J. Shobha among others has drawn attention to the fact that there is plenty of talent available in the state. Geetha in particular is going through a golden phase of her career and her double golds in the recent Federation Cup meet in New Delhi won her the title of "Best Woman Athlete" of the meet.
Several coaches are of the opinion that it may not be long before some upcoming juniors also hit the headlines.
While the results obtained by the athletes have been encouraging, a system that can tap and groom talent effectively, is yet to be put in place. While cricket and tennis have an inbuilt attraction thanks to the publicity they get in the media, it is difficult to build the same ambience around a sport like athletics. Both Geetha and Shankar have come up the hard way and in this respect both have a similar tale to tell. Both came from humble backgrounds and made it to the top by sheer hard work and determination. It is likely that young athletes who have the ability to emulate the feats of Geetha, Shankar and Shobha are present in the state but they have to be spotted and encouraged. According to athletics coach Rajesh Kumar, there are several talented children who take part in road races and meets which are organised in Hyderabad from time to time.
But these youngsters need financial support. They need a good diet, for athletics is all about building up stamina, strength and endurance. "The meet which was organised recently where cash awards were given to the medallists drew a good response and more such meets have to be conducted," Rajesh says. "Given the right kind of encouragement and facilities, there is no reason why athletes from Andhra Pradesh should not do well. Our juniors are doing very well and in a few years time, when they become seniors, the State could very well become a powerhouse in this sport," Rajesh says.
ABHIJIT SEN GUPtA
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