India set to host biggest Asian Cycling championship from March 7

06 March, 2013

Deobra from Andaman is one of the biggest hope for a medal in the Asian Cycling Championships in the women's category. But, it is very hard for India to win a medal in the men's category, Dipender, who is the Media coordinator, Cycling Federation of India, told this citizen journalist.

It is for the third time that India will host the Asian Cycling Championship, the previous instances being in 1989 and 2005. President of CFI, P.S. Dhindsa said, “This championship will see participation from 29 countries. It is the biggest Asian Cycling championships in its history with more than 800 participants.”

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The competition, which is going to kick off from March 7 would see participation of top cyclist from Asia, which includes Olympic medalist as well. So, expect the competition to be one of the best in Asia. The history of the Asian Championship reflects that it has been primarily dominated by countries such as China, Iran, Japan, and South Korea. Dipender further added that there are no big names in Asian cycling that won't be there in the championship.

It is going to be an important race for many cyclists, as the winners would be given points as per their performance in the championship. Mr Dhindsa said, “All Asian Championships are organised by the governing body. There will be no prize money, but the winners would be given medals as well as points, which will help them qualify for the Olympics. There are a lots of races in various parts of the world, so these cyclists can gather points by winning races and eventually qualify for the Olympics.” Talking about India's chances, he remains optimistic and feels that there are couple if Indian cyclist, who may win medals.

These cyclists from Asia would be participating in various events such as sprints, time-trial, keirin, and point race. So with the number of events, chances of doping increase, and the CFI will be strict regarding this issue. Dhindsa said, “Even during the trials, dope tests were conducted on Indian cyclists. We are also going to have random tests during the championship from various nations and especially the winners of various events would be tested for doping.”

With such championships, the CFI is hopeful that the sport will increase its popularity in India. “In the number of organised races, we have seen an improvement on the performance of the Indian cyclists. Slowly with time, it will become popular in India.”