PILLAY Olympic Dhanraj four times, 52 years old on Friday, urged the athletes to focus on their duties, remain calm & enjoy the moment at Olympicspierre de Coubertin, founder of the International Olympic Committee, said: “The most important thing in the Olympics does not win but participate ; The important thing in life does not conquer but struggles well.
“I remembered Coubertin’s words as the best 119 Indian athletes started the Olympic journey.
Most athletes take sports with dreams representing the country at the Olympics and many of you are on the verge of realizing that dream.
So, congratulations to each of you who will use India in Tokyo.
Believe when I say, you have become a champion.
As an athlete, who is proud to represent India at four Olympics, I know what is needed to be part of the contingent for Quadrennial extravaganza.
Flash, blood, and your hard work has helped you reach this stage and it’s time for you to make it counted.
The Tokyo Olympic experience will be unique not only to debutant between you, but also an experienced campaigner.
The Covid-19 outbreak has an upset plan, strategy and leads to delay the game itself.
The last year – and half have challenged physically, emotionally and mentally for everyone.
You will stay away from home, most live in bubbles.
Even when you are worried about the safety of your loved ones, the focus is still practicing hard for the match.
Unfortunately, many of you are tested positive for Covid-19 and the recovery process, I understand, frustration and drying.
Even though there is a setback, you will stay focused and continue to work towards your Olympic destination.
This reflects the amazing determination, determination and beliefs.
I am sure each of you will make this sacrifice calculation.
When you represent your country at any stage, you are bound by expectations; When the event is an Olympics, hopes are bigger.
My beloved athlete, my sincere advice for each of you is: Don’t let the expectation load burden you.
In Tokyo, while you stay focused on Laurels’ victory for the country, don’t forget to soak in experience and enjoy at this time.
At the same stage of the Olympics, it is very important for you all stay calm and relaxed.
Like my specials for Indian men and women’s hockey teams.
Both teams have shown extraordinary improvements in fitness and skills for the past 4-5 years.
Performance rating and their fih is a testimony for that.
My appeal for both teams is not to allow the pressure to get to you.
You have all put your heart and soul to prepare the game and I’m sure that you will all do it well.
Don’t set the podium as your goal, instead of breaking into a smaller target.
Maintain your dream young tree patiently and in the end it will produce fruit.
Stay loyal to the process and the results will come.
Like other countries, you have support without my condition.
I will not be in Tokyo, but throughout my game with you in the Spirit.
As a nation, we are rooting for each of you to excel and to do the best of your abilities.
I hope you are all safe, successful, and satisfying experiences at the Tokyo Olympics.
Jai Hind! (Padmashri Awardee Dhanraj Pillay is Olympian four times and former Indian hockey captain) (as told to Baga Veerappa)