Gagan Narang, India’s chief of mission for the Paris Olympics, said on Saturday that the archery and rowing teams were the first from the country to report at the Games Village. He said the athletes were eager to begin their campaign at the sporting extravaganza.

While the archery and rowing teams reported to the Paris Sports Village on Friday, the Indian men’s hockey team arrived from the Netherlands on Saturday, where it was making final preparations.

“I arrived in Paris on Thursday evening and took stock of the organisation at the Games Village for the Indian contingent. Archery and rowing were the first Indian teams to arrive on Friday and have settled in comfortably. The athletes are slowly settling in and exploring the Village,” said Narang, the 2012 London Olympics bronze medallist.

“I am reminded of my glory days as an athlete at the Olympics” – Gagan Narang

He further said that the mood among the athletes is one of excitement and anticipation.

“The mood is definitely upbeat. We have the Indian men’s hockey team arriving on Saturday. I’m sure I’ll be reminded of it as an athlete during my heyday at the Olympics.

“While there is a lot of excitement, athletes also want some playing time in the competition arenas. We want to ensure that the athletes have everything they need for the start of their respective events,” added Narang, a four-time Olympian.

The decorated Indian shooter, who is also the recipient of the prestigious Khel Ratna and Padma Shri awards, expressed his gratitude to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for appointing him as the chef-de-mission for the Paris Games.

“It is a great honour for me to travel with the Indian contingent as Chef-de-Mission for the Paris Olympics. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for considering me for this role and giving me the opportunity to serve my country once again on the biggest stage of sport,” Narang said.

“As an athlete, I fully understand the demands of elite athletes at the world’s biggest sporting event. I will work hard to motivate and inspire the Indian contingent while also ensuring their priorities are met to perform at their best.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve as the primary point of contact between our athletes, the Organising Committee and other relevant stakeholders during the Games. I will ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently,” he said.

India will be represented by 117 athletes across 20 disciplines at the Paris Olympics.

Published: Saturday, July 20, 2024, 8:23 PM IST