A Pensive Reflection

If the strident sabre-rattling over a trumpeted target shows sign of abating, a more thoughtful gaze might be in order. Solely judging the sports quality , I counted precisely five performances which would count as world-class which is still commendable.

It's undeniable that India as a wealthy nation with access to resources aplenty, has a significant advantage in regional sports competitions. No denying then that the availability of state-of-the-art training facilities, expert coaching staff, and financial support for athletes has placed them in a privileged position. An unequal playing field, where smaller and less affluent nations struggle to compete on equal terms will always throw up lopsided results. Programs include scouting, early talent identification, and robust grassroots development, gave us a distinct advantage.

The intense focus on winning medals placed inordinate and enormous pressure on athletes. This pressure, often driven by national expectations, did frequently overshadow the spirit of sportsmanship and enjoyment of the game with unseemly spectacles of nationalism detracting from the spirit of competition, and Alas, this looks a sight beyond reasonable redemption anytime soon !

While sporting competitions have been for some time about a narrow laser focus on winning medals, this zeroing in “winnable” events vitiates true sportsmanship and shifts the focus away from the holistic development of athletes. Instead of producing well-rounded, healthy individuals, a win at all costs mindset is detrimental if only underpinning an otherwise enervated national psyche. This financial dominance in spheres other nations cannot or do not want to compete in stifles the overall growth and competitiveness of sports overall.

In conclusion, consistent success in regional sports competitions is undoubtedly impressive but has to go beyond a mere psychological pick-me-up. Nonetheless, well done to all winners and competitors.?

Yes, as the line from Casablanca goes, “We’ll always have Paris !!” :)

?Disclaimer : Thoughts and inferences remain mine alone !