“We have been encouraging such things for many years now. Instead of training and competing in well-known training spots in Europe, we travel to Ukraine. Reports have been coming in the media for some time now about such trips and if prompt action had been taken then, these incidents would not have happened,” said Usha, who is one of the coaches for the Indian team for the Asian meet, beginning in Kobe on Thursday.
“We have always watched in wonder when athletes suddenly clock astonishing timings. It takes a year’s hard work to cut down even a second in the 400M and bring it below 55. It takes more work to bring it down further,” said Usha.
The former Asian champion said she was saddened by the plight of the relay quartet. “The relay team has always been our strong point. It is a sad situation to be in,” she said, adding that clean athletes will feel encouraged by the news of positive tests.
“Many a time, young athletes feel discouraged when they see doped runners doing well. For them, it is a heartening development,” Usha added.