"If better is possible,good is not enough!"
The month of August holds a greater significance in India's history.Though there isn't one in comparison to August 15, we probably have a lesser but yet significant date in August 11 that is worth a marking on our calendar's and memories.That day when Abhinav Bhindra created history by winning the first ever individual gold that's been eluding for years.
For long we've been witness to cricketing wins uniting the nation in every possible aspect.The scene was no different after Bindra's riveting performance in China.From TV channels flashing with breaking news throughout the day, mail forwards, to "You've made us proud" sms'es exchanged, Bindra's win at Beijing was ubiquitous and rightly so.The aftermath of the effect was palpable.There is little doubt, sport once again proved to be the binding factor.
Lets face it.At a time when everyone hoped for a better performance than Athens 2004 with a touch of optimism from a select few, Bindra's feat is nothing short of a sporting spectacle considering the fact that we have a dearth of Olympic heroes.A concoction of self-belief, effective work ethic and perseverance that eventually paid off, the hallmark of a winner.To be witnessing Bindra stand on the podium with the National Anthem at the backdrop was so overwhelming.A poignant moment in our sporting history hard to describe.
Thanks to Bindra, for once a country of over a billion has an Olympic hero to brag about.Such is the irony indicative of the state of affairs when it comes to Olympic sports in India.The victory is an apt response to all the cynics who believed in the games not able to create an impact with the masses.Bindra's triumph at Beijing could just be the catalyst that was much needed.Will it inspire younger athletes? Hopefully,Yes.But to expect the same out of the sponsors would be premature given the fact that there is very little exposure of such athletes in comparison to cricket.
While the euphoria will continue to reside, there are valuable lessons to be learnt from the games.With hardly any assistance from the government it is a fine example of an individual succeeding with an effective support system (an Olympic standard shooting range in house) in the family, a far cry in Indian sports.
While it is necessary to savour the victory it is also about taking positives from the Olympics.Despite the losses the Indian contingent has put up some inspirational performances in the form of debutant's Saina Nehwal,Jitender Kumar,Anup Sridhar and few others progressing through.The experience at the Beijing Olympics for the youngsters is invaluable and is certain to hold them in good stead in the future.With age on their side these athletes are sure to make a mark at the world stage sooner.
"Be the change you want to see" - We've had a plethora of discussions and ideas to improve the state of sports but at the end of the day it boils down to execution which depends on the mindset of people running the show.It is time the government and the sporting bodies pull up their socks, got rid of the unprofessional set up that looms large and invest in creating an effective system.It is imperative to realise the kind of talent available within the country, back deserving athletes to the core and nurture them into being future Olympians.It is time to let go the ego and learn from countries like China and Australia and instill a strong sporting culture in terms of setting up academies on par with best in the world, offer athletes with sponsorships to train abroad and develop better infrastructure.
The rise of the Indian Railways, a case study in management circles is a fine example indicative of the advantages in forging a public-private partnership provided it is carried out with a vision.The federations can take cue from the success story of the Railways.A conjunction with the best sports management groups like the IMG could be a postive step in initiating change.
Lets be optimistic and hope victories such as these catapult into more such sporting wins in future.Only time will tell if history will repeat or if its going to be a flash in the pan.But for now its time to bask in the glory of an momentous occasion we've never been privileged to be a part of.
Thanks Abhinav..
