Hurling the javelin, heaving the discus, tossing the iron ball and testing their strength on hammer throw, young athletes were busy bees at the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) Throws Academy’s residential camp, here at Anna Stadium.
Over 80 youngsters in the age group of 14 to 18 are undergoing training at the 15-day camp, which concludes on May 29.
Nearly 30 are newcomers selected to the academy through trials held last week. The Throws Academy was established by the SDAT nearly a decade ago to impart training in shot put, discus throw, hammer and javelin throw. The academy shifted base from Dindigul to Tiruchi last year.
“This is the fourth residential camp of the academy in Tiruchi,” said P. Kalaiselvan, District Sports Officer. “The participants are enthused and are keen to learn.”
The academy has been producing quality athletes over the years, according to Perumal Ramasamy, an expert at the academy.
“Youngsters trained at the academy have been performing well at the National and State-level meets,” he said.
The beginners are provided orientation while the capabilities of senior trainees are fine-tuned based on their specialisation.
Theory classes on diet tips and pranayama sessions to make participants feel more energetic also figure in the camp, Mr. Ramasamy added.
The coaching team comprises P. Velmurugan and G. Kokila, both from SDAT.
