Abhinav Bindra, India's First-Ever Olympic Champion, Inspires Paris-Bound Athletes
Abhinav Bindra, India's pioneering Olympic gold medalist, recently participated in a panel discussion organized by the Embassy of France in collaboration with the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI). The discussion focused on India's preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Bindra, who secured the coveted gold medal in shooting at the 2008 Beijing Games, shared his insights and advice with the Indian contingent preparing for the Paris Games.
A New Generation of Confident Athletes
Bindra commended the current generation of Indian athletes for their unwavering confidence, which he contrasted with the chicken-hearted nature of athletes during his time. He attributed this shift to India's societal evolution, which has fostered a greater belief in the nation's sporting potential. They want to go and win, and not just win but win gold medals, Bindra remarked.
Focus on the Present
Despite the obvious excitement surrounding the upcoming Games, Bindra emphasized the importance of athletes remaining grounded and focused on the present moment. The biggest mistake athletes make is that they are either living in the past or thinking about what the future holds, he said.
Challenges and Opportunities
While acknowledging the fierce competition athletes face, Bindra stressed the need for them to embrace pressure and concentrate on the meticulous execution of their skills. He advised them to draw inspiration from past successes but avoid dwelling on them or becoming preoccupied with future expectations.
India's Aspiration to Host the Olympic Games
Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, expressed France's commitment to delivering an exceptional Games in Paris. He highlighted the core principles of innovation, sustainability, solidarity, gender equality, employment, education, and inclusivity that guide their organization of the event. Mathou also mentioned the crucial MoU signed between India and France for cooperation in sports, emphasizing its significance as India aspires to host the Olympic Games in 2036.
Assessing India's Medal Prospects
Adille Sumariwalla, President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), expressed cautious optimism about India's medal prospects in Paris. While acknowledging the rigorous preparation undertaken by Indian athletes, he emphasized the unpredictability of sports and the need to focus on overall progress rather than solely on the medal count.
Progress means not just the number of medals won, Sumariwalla said. We have to see how many athletes were in London, Rio, Tokyo, and how many now. How many made the finals then and how many now. If the number is up, is that progress? Yes. That's how I measure.
Grassroots Development Imperative
Bindra emphasized the necessity of investing in grassroots sports development to achieve India's long-term Olympic aspirations. He advocated for a holistic approach to sports that prioritizes participation and enjoyment for all. By increasing the base of active sports participants, India can expect a corresponding increase in the number of elite-level athletes.
The Global Significance of Paris 2024
Bindra noted the unique global context of the upcoming Games, taking place amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. He expressed his hope that the Games would serve as a symbol of unity and a celebration of human excellence.
We are living in a different world, Bindra said. The difference is that war was happening in different parts of the world and it is after a very long time, that the world is coming together. They are all living under the same roof, chasing excellence. It will be a visual spectacle with sporting venues in the background of iconic (buildings), it will be a feast for eyes.
