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In a sheer case of ignorance, Triple Jumper Arpinder Singh has lost his opportunity to train at world-renowned training centre Chula Vista Academy, after the Sports Ministry and Athletics Federation of India (AFI) didn’t sanction the request in time.
National record holder Arpinder, is a part of the Target Olympic Podium scheme (TOP), which grants India’s finest sportspersons a chance to train in an academy of their choice. The 22-year old chose to train under renowned Coach Jeremy Fischer, which was duly granted by the AFI. However, the lack of attention paid to the swiftness of the process has caused Arpinder a massive blow to his 2016 Rio Olympics preparations.
Arpinder had also put in a request for SS Pannu to travel with him, as he could speak English. The request was declined by the AFI. A source from the Punjab Athletics Associations said, “Chula Vista authorities were informed about Arpinder and Jeremy was looking forward to his arrival. Despite us pressurising AFI officials about the last date of registration, they did not get back to us. Now the time is over, let’s see what can be done.”
The Commonwealth Games Bronze medallist is now looking to train in England for next year’s sporting extravaganza. However, the training would be much different as Jeremy Fischer has trained several triple jumpers to Olympic gold.
AFI Secretary, C K Valson said,”The problem came up when Arpinder wanted to take his coach. Now, we as an association have demarcated funds, it’s not possible for us to send a coach as well. The delay was because we had already complete Arpinder’s formalities and we were unable to do that for the coach.”
On being contacted, Arpinder Singh refused to comment on the issue.
Arpinder is being touted as one of India’s future hopes in Athletics, after his fabulous run in 2014. In June last year, he jumped 17.17 metres and thrashed his Renjith Maheshwary’s National record of 16.84. He would also go on to medal at the 2014 Asian Championships and Commonwealth Games.
