Every four years, as the Olympics nears, there is a scramble to get things done. This year has been no different.
While several nations have already made their ceremonial kits public, the Indian Olympic Association is under fire for not providing the same to athletes in time. With several athletes either already out of the country for training or leaving over the next few days, there is a rush to get them kitted in time.
The IOA, however, has assured that everyone would get theirs well in advance before the opening ceremony. “Those who are outside India, their kits will be carried either by the IOA or the respective federation officials — as in the case of shooting — to Rio directly.
“For other games, the kits will be distributed soon. The archers have already been given their playing kits and the ceremonials will be distributed in the next few days,” India’s chef-de-mission to Rio Rakesh Gupta said.
“We had planned to hand over all the kits, both competition and ceremonial, by June 30. But the vendor (Study By Janak, a leading retail chain specialising in occasion wear) has delayed the delivery. Also, given that more athletes are qualifying even now (Monday was the last day to qualify in athletics) it was difficult for us to get an exact number. We are hopeful of getting everything sorted out in the next few days,” Gupta said.
Asked about trying out the the kits, Gupta insisted there would be no glitches this time.
