IWF concerned about average performances

Even after five hours of hectic screening, the Indian Weightlifting Federation...

Even after five hours of hectic screening, the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWF) was still in doubt about the prospects of qualifying for the Beijing Olympics. Nevertheless, a seven-member women’s team and five men emerged out of the Thursday trials in Patiala as India’s best bet for the upcoming Olympic qualifiers in Kanazawa City, Japan, beginning from April 27. This will be the last chance for the Indian squad to book a ticket to Beijing.

Officials and selectors were disappointed with average performance in the trials, though IWF secretary Balbir Singh Bhatia reiterated that they are hopeful of a better show in Japan. “There is scope of improvement and we hope to make it to Beijing,” he told The Indian Express.

The IWF is banking upon its seasoned women lifters including Shailaja Pujari to deliver the goods in the continental competition. In 2002, Manchester Commonwealth Games, Shailaja had won three gold medals .

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According to Bhatia, juniors were allowed in the trials, but of the eight participants, only Sristi Singh was impressive enough to be included in the squad. The federation has also selected Ranu Mohanty and Chanchal Yadav as reserves in the women’s section.

Surprisingly, the federation didn’t spot any women lifters in the lower weight category, saying they weren’t impressive enough, while not allowing Inu Rani (53 kg) and Renu Bala (58kg) to participate in the trials on the grounds that the duo had not reported for the coaching camp.

Squad for Japan

Women: H Shaya Devi (53 kg), L Monica Devi, Sristi Singh (69 kg), Shailaja Pujari, Kavita Devi (75 kg), Geeta Rani, K Tulsi (plus 75 kg). Men: K Pujari (62 kg), VS Rao (66 kg), K Ravi, G Elumali (69kg), Santok Kumar (85 kg).

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