The World Relays in the Bahamas this weekend has attracted the world’s top sprinters, including Noah Lyles, Marcell Jacobs, and Femke Bol. India has also sent its relay teams to the event, with the aim of securing Olympic qualification spots for Paris 2024.
The Indian men’s 4x400m team, which set an Asian record at the World Championships last year, has been training in the Bahamas for a month to acclimatize to the unpredictable weather conditions. The team includes Amoj Jacob, Arokia Rajiv, Avinash Krishna Kumar, Rajesh Ramesh, Noah Nirmal Tom, Muhammed Ajmal, Muhammed Anas Yahiya, and Yashas Palaksha.
“The biggest challenge for us is the climate,” said Rajiv. “It’s very unpredictable here, with heat, rain, strong winds, and chilly days. But coming here early and training for almost a month has helped us adapt.”
The Indian women’s 4x400m team is also aiming for Olympic qualification. The team includes Dutee Chand, Hima Das, MR Poovamma, and Sarita Gayakwad.
The top two teams from each heat on Saturday will earn their Paris spots as well as a place in the World Relays final. There will be a second shot on Sunday for the remaining teams in another round where the top two teams from each heat will be rewarded with Olympic berths.
The Indian relay teams are confident of their chances of qualifying for Paris. “After last year, everyone is confident enough to run at the big stage,” said Noah. “It will not be easy here, because every team is good. But the team is motivated and confident of achieving what we’re here for.”
