Seb Coe, in deep contemplation, photo by PhotoRun.net
NEW DELHI (IND): The Statesman.com writes that IAAF President Sebastian Coe says that India has the capability to host big ticket track and field events and he would love to see the prestigious Diamond League Meeting being held in the country in near future. “I know it is possible. New Delhi also hosted the World Half Marathon Championships way back in 2004 and it was hugely successful. So, I am sure India is well capable of hosting big international events. I want to see IAAF events coming to India. It’s important IAAF increases its global footprint, particularly for our big one-day athletics events. Asia, including India, is an important market. That will be where our focus is. I would love to have a Diamond League event in India one day,” he added.
RunBlogRun opines: Of course, Seb Coe is right. India could be the next great athletic world power. There are 25 races, at least, in India, with over 20,000 runners. There are a plethora of road races with six figure prize purses. There are fine athletic performances, and some amazing athletes coming through their antiquated system. The real issue is this: drug testing has to catch up with the sport in India’s enthusiasm. If it does, India will be the next great global sports power.
