India's Cycling Potential Soars with International Coaching and Strategic Roadmap

India’s Cycling Potential Soars with International Coaching and Strategic Roadmap

India’s cycling potential has been gaining recognition, with the arrival of French coach Kevin Sireau in January 2023 marking a strategic shift towards Olympic success. Sireau’s guidance has already yielded remarkable improvements, including a personal best timing of 44.451 seconds in the Asian Track Cycling Championship sprint race.

The quartet of Esow Alben, Y Rojit Singh, Ronaldo, and David have emerged as the face of Indian cycling, showcasing their prowess with a historic team sprint gold at the 2019 World Junior Track Cycling Championship and Ronaldo’s silver at the 2022 Asian Track Cycling Championship.

Jacques Landry, UCI WCC Director, believes India has the potential to become a cycling powerhouse in Asia. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, including talent identification, coach education, and a robust competition calendar.

Landry highlights the importance of focusing on younger disciplines like BMX Racing and BMX Freestyle, which emphasize physical strength and technical proficiency. He also suggests hosting international events in India to boost popularity and attract more talent.

Despite the progress, Landry acknowledges the challenges India faces, including a lack of cycling history and limited financial support. He stresses the need for recurrent talent identification initiatives and qualified coaches to nurture the country’s potential.

Sireau has set a target for India to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Landry believes this goal is realistic, given the country’s population size and the potential for talent identification. He also emphasizes the importance of hosting international events to foster growth.

Landry explains that performance drop-offs from junior to elite levels can be attributed to factors such as increased competition depth and dropout rates. He suggests that juniors focus on minimizing the gap between their times and elite performances.

Mental strength plays a crucial role in cycling, as it encompasses psychological, tactical, and technical aspects. Landry emphasizes the importance of maintaining good mental health and focusing on psychological aspects to enhance performance.

The UCI WCC is collaborating with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) to enhance its capacity in various areas. The WCC is sharing its expertise in talent identification, infrastructure development, and athlete development.

Landry cites the success of the UCI WCC’s development programs in countries like China and South Korea. He believes the Delhi satellite can play a similar role in South Asia, fostering cycling growth and leading to Olympic and Paralympic qualification.

Indian Cyclists Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya Compete with Honor at Paralympics

Indian Cyclists Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya Compete with Honor at Paralympics

Indian Cyclists Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya Finish Respectably at Paralympics

Indian cyclists Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya showcased their determination and resilience at the Paralympics in Paris on Wednesday, competing in their respective cycling events.

Gaderiya, competing in the women’s C1 individual time trial, faced a challenging 5.8km course. Despite finishing in 16th and last position, she displayed unwavering spirit, completing the race in 30 minutes and 0.16 seconds. Germany’s Maike Hausberger emerged victorious, securing the gold medal with a time of 21:30.45. Britain’s Frances Brown and Sweden’s Anna Beck followed closely, claiming silver and bronze with times of 21:46.18 and 21:54.71, respectively.

In the men’s C2 time trial, Arshad Shaik also faced a demanding 5.8km course. Despite finishing 11th and last, he demonstrated his tenacity, crossing the finish line in 25:20.11. France’s Alexandre Leaute dominated the event, winning the gold medal with an impressive time of 19:24.25. Belgium’s Ewoud Vromant and Australia’s Darren Hicks secured silver and bronze with times of 19:26.45 and 19:26.61, respectively.

Athletes in the women’s C1 and men’s C2 classes typically have limb deficiencies, impaired muscle power or range of motion, or impairments affecting coordination. Jyoti Gaderiya’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by adversity. Following a bike accident in May 2016, she underwent a left leg amputation. Despite this setback, she has persevered, and the Paralympics marks her participation in four events.

Arshad Shaik has also faced challenges, having suffered multiple injuries, including a left leg above-knee amputation, in a road accident in 2004 at the age of 11. His determination and resilience have propelled him to the Paralympics, where he continues to inspire others.

Paralympic Cyclist Shaik Arshad Aims for Gold in Paris

Paralympic Cyclist Shaik Arshad Aims for Gold in Paris

Shaik Arshad, a Paralympic cyclist, is on a mission to bring home a gold medal from the upcoming Paralympics in Paris. His journey to the top has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but his determination remains unwavering.

Arshad’s athletic career began with taekwondo, where he earned a green belt. However, his passion for sports extended beyond martial arts. He explored archery and wheelchair fencing, winning numerous medals at the state level. Despite his successes, he failed to make it to the national level, leaving him feeling disheartened.

Undeterred, Arshad attended a camp in Bengaluru, where he was selected for cycling training. This marked the beginning of his journey in para-cycling. With the support of his coach, who recognized his potential, Arshad dedicated himself to the sport.

In 2018, he received a silicone leg, which significantly improved his training. In 2019, he participated in a camp in Gujarat, where he scaled Mount Bhagirathi, demonstrating his endurance and commitment.

Arshad’s first international competition was in Tajikistan, where he narrowly missed the podium, finishing fourth. However, he remained undeterred, with his coach’s guidance continually pushing him forward. His dedication led him to undertake a monumental feat, cycling from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, showcasing his endurance and commitment.

With the Paralympics approaching, Arshad’s focus is sharper than ever. “When I’m riding, my mind is completely on my training,” he says. “I almost left this career once, but my coach brought me back on track. Now, there’s nothing but the goal in my mind.”

Arshad’s journey is not just about winning medals, it’s about inspiring others and proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. As he sets his sights on Paris, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of a nation, and with every pedal stroke, he moves closer to turning those dreams into reality.

Saint Lucia's Alfred Targets Olympic Sprint Double, Ingebrigtsen-Kerr Clash Looms

Saint Lucia’s Alfred Targets Olympic Sprint Double, Ingebrigtsen-Kerr Clash Looms

Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred is poised to make history on Tuesday as she aims for an Olympic sprint double in the 200m, following her triumph in the 100m. The tiny Caribbean island nation has never had an Olympic medalist before Alfred’s groundbreaking victory.

Alfred’s quest for a double mirrors that of Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah, who achieved the feat at the 2016 and 2021 Olympics. Alfred faces stiff competition from US sprinter Gabrielle Thomas, who boasts the world’s fastest time this year.

Meanwhile, the men’s 1500m promises a thrilling showdown between Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Great Britain’s Josh Kerr. Ingebrigtsen has been critical of Kerr’s absence from certain events, while Kerr has vowed to prove his worth on the track.

In boxing, Algeria’s Imane Khelif is at the center of a gender controversy after being disqualified from last year’s world championships. However, the IOC has cleared her to compete in Paris, where she is guaranteed at least a bronze medal.

The women’s football competition is heating up, with World Cup holders Spain and four-time gold medalists the United States on course for a potential final showdown. Spain faces Brazil in the semifinals, while the rejuvenated USA under new coach Emma Hayes takes on Germany.

Track cycling powerhouse Great Britain has already secured gold in the women’s team sprint and will seek to repeat their success in the men’s event. China’s divers are also aiming for a fifth gold in the women’s 10m platform.

In surfing, France’s Kauli Vaast and the United States’ Caroline Marks have already claimed gold medals in the men’s and women’s events, respectively. The USA now leads the overall medal table with 21 golds, ahead of China.

India's Cycling Hopes Soar with French Coach and Talented Youngsters

India’s Cycling Hopes Soar with French Coach and Talented Youngsters

India’s cycling aspirations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics rest heavily on the expertise of French coach Kevin Sireau and a promising group of young cyclists who have already made their mark on the Asian and world junior circuits.

Sireau, a two-time Olympic medalist, joined the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) in January and has quickly recognized the potential of India’s cycling ecosystem. Under his guidance, the Indian quartet of Esow Alben, L Ronaldo Singh, Y Rojit Singh, and Jemsh Singh, who won a historic gold medal at the 2019 World Junior Track Cycling Championship, are now aiming for the Olympic podium.

Ronaldo also became the first Indian to win an individual silver medal in the men’s sprint race at the 2022 Asian Track Cycling Championship. India’s strong performance at the Asian meet, where they won nine gold medals, further boosted their confidence.

Sireau believes that India has the talent to succeed at the highest level. “In a big country like India, I believe we have many future talents,” he said. “These guys have just started by winning the junior worlds. Now they are in the senior category and if they have to finish on the Olympic podium, a very high level has to be achieved.”

The Indian team has shown signs of improvement under Sireau’s guidance, clocking a personal best of 44.451 seconds in the Asian Track Cycling Championship sprint race. While they are still behind the Olympic record of 41.369 seconds, they are not far from Australia’s fourth-best time of 44.013 seconds.

“This year our target is the world championships in October,” said Sireau. “We are driving all energies in that direction. I have discussed the roadmap for LA 2028 with CFI and doing things step by step. In the next three-four years you will see a big difference, I promise.”

Asian Cycling Confederation secretary general Onkar Singh is confident in Sireau’s abilities. “From 149th rank to Category 1 in juniors in four years’ time, speaks for itself,” he said. “We are lucky to have a person like Kevin.”

Cyclist Rojit, who is supported by the government’s Target Olympic Podium Scheme, praised Sireau’s impact. “There has been a lot of difference since Kevin sir joined the team,” he said. “He has changed how we train, what we eat and how we plan recovery. He has brought a new discipline and I am very happy for being able to learn from him.”

With Sireau’s guidance and the determination of its young cyclists, India’s cycling program is poised for success in the years leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

French Cycling Legend Kevin Sireau Guides India to Asian Track Medals

French Cycling Legend Kevin Sireau Guides India to Asian Track Medals

Kevin Sireau, a two-time Olympic silver medalist, has embarked on a new journey as India’s first foreign cycling coach. Despite initially pursuing football and judo, Sireau’s passion for cycling ignited when he discovered track cycling at the age of 12.

In his maiden assignment with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Sireau guided India to six medals at the Asian Track Cycling Championships. He attributes his success to the robust cycling infrastructure in France, where talent identification and competition begin at an early age.

Sireau believes that India has immense cycling potential and is working to overhaul the training system. He plans to decentralize training centers and identify each rider’s core discipline. This approach aims to create a smaller, elite group of cyclists who can focus on specific events.

Sireau emphasizes the importance of mentality in cycling. He looks for riders who exhibit confidence and determination on the track. He believes that a strong build is beneficial but that a fearless mindset is crucial for success.

The CFI is taking cues from the French model and is planning to implement a similar systemic approach. They aim to identify and nurture young talent, providing them with the necessary support and training to excel at the international level.

Sireau’s expertise and experience will be invaluable in shaping India’s cycling future. His focus on talent identification, performance-oriented training, and mental toughness will help India produce world-class cyclists.

Dame Sarah Storey to Become Lancashire Cricket Club's Next President

Dame Sarah Storey to Become Lancashire Cricket Club’s Next President

Dame Sarah Storey, Great Britain’s most decorated Paralympian, is poised to become Lancashire Cricket Club’s next President. The nomination, proposed by the club’s board, will be presented at the annual general meeting in May.

Storey’s illustrious career has spanned eight Paralympic Games, where she has amassed an astonishing 28 medals, including 17 golds, in both cycling and swimming. Her unwavering determination and exceptional achievements have earned her the prestigious title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE).

Beyond her sporting accomplishments, Storey is an active advocate for physical activity and inclusion. She currently serves as Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, promoting sustainable and accessible transportation. Additionally, she holds positions as a Visiting Professor at Manchester Metropolitan University and a board member at the Department of Transport.

Lancashire Cricket Club Chairman Andy Anson expressed his delight at Storey’s nomination, stating, “Sarah is an outstanding candidate for the Presidency. Her unparalleled record as Britain’s most successful Paralympian, coupled with her proven track record in high-performance elite sport and strategic advisory roles, makes her an inspirational presence.”

Storey’s appointment is expected to provide invaluable support to Lancashire’s men’s and women’s squads. Her expertise in elite sport and her commitment to excellence will be instrumental in guiding the club towards its goals.

Mark Chilton, Lancashire’s Director of Cricket Performance, emphasized the significance of Storey’s experience, saying, “Dame Sarah has operated at the very top level of elite sport throughout her career. She knows what it takes to succeed, and it will be fantastic to have somebody on the Board with her experiences and knowledge as we look to achieve our goals on the field in the coming years.”

Storey’s nomination is a testament to her unwavering dedication to sports and her commitment to inspiring others. Her appointment as Lancashire Cricket Club’s President will undoubtedly be a catalyst for further success and growth for the club.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart