VIDEO – Medals primary, awards secondary: Narang asks athletes to strive for excellence
While recognizing the emotional impact of not receiving an award, Narang advised athletes to remain undeterred.
Indian Olympic Association Vice President and 2012 London Olympic Bronze medallist shooter Gagan Narang believes that the athletes who’s names were not nominated for this year’s prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award shouldn’t be disheartened but take it as a source of inspiration to do better in the future competitions.
“For any athlete, an award is a source of encouragement. But when an athlete begins their journey, awards are not the ultimate goal. What truly matters is bringing medals home for the country,” Narang told PTI Videos in an exclusive interview.
While recognizing the emotional impact of not receiving an award, Narang advised athletes to remain undeterred.
“Awards will come and go, if not this time, one can get it next year. I don’t think it should be a demotivating fact but they should get inspired to perform better in the future,” he remarked.
“I think that these athletes have also understood over the period of time that country matters the most and is the number one priority”, he added.
He also acknowledged the challenges faced by the jury in an Olympic year, where exceptional performances abound, making the selection process particularly demanding.
“Keeping in mind the Olympic year it is a very difficult job for the jury to take a call after seeing so many great performances that have happened”, he added.
Addressing discussions within the Mission Olympic Cell meeting that took place in Delhi on Tuesday, Narang expressed optimism that whatever suggestions were given by the members, will be worked upon in the near future.
“Several procedural suggestions were made by the members. I’m hopeful these changes will be implemented in the coming months,” he said.
Narang praised the government’s commitment to refining the system.
“I am sure that the government is working really hard, we all believe that they are working hard to see these changes implemented and hopefully see them in the coming few months”, he concluded.
SPORTSTAR