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Suraj Panwar, a 23-year-old race walker, is preparing for a unique challenge at the upcoming Paris Olympics. Despite being a 20km race walker, he will be competing in the inaugural marathon race walk mixed relay event, where he will team up with Priyanka Goswami.Panwar's journey to the Olympics has been marked by both adversity and triumph. Born into a family of forest guards, he lost his father at a young age when he was killed while preventing illegal logging. Raised by his single mother, Poonam, who worked at a forest department nursery, Panwar's sporting ambitions were nurtured from an early age.The marathon race walk mixed relay event, which will make its Olympic debut in Paris, presents a new challenge for Panwar. He will cover a total of 22.195km in two legs, with a break in between. The combined time of both athletes will determine the result.Panwar is currently training under Russian coach Tatiana Sibileva and is simulating the race conditions by taking breaks after completing 12.195km. He is not practicing with Goswami, who is training abroad, but will meet her in Paris before the event.Despite the challenges, Panwar is determined to give his best. He qualified for the Olympics through the world ranking quota in the 20km event but was later selected for the mixed relay. "It was a bit of a surprise," he said. "But I continued my training and it is a dream come true to be an Olympian."Panwar's mother, Poonam, has been his constant source of inspiration. "She told me to focus on my game and not on other things," he said. "I am keeping my TOPS inclusion a secret from her until I start getting the allowance. She will be very happy."With the support of his mother and the guidance of his coach, Panwar is ready to embrace the challenges of the Paris Olympics and make his mark on the world stage.

Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev has urged Indian athletes participating in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics to perform fearlessly and expressed hope that the country will surpass its previous medal tally. India will be represented by a contingent of 117 athletes in Paris, aiming to improve upon the seven medals won in Tokyo.Dev, who is also the president of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), advised the athletes to express themselves without hesitation. He believes that India has the potential to achieve a double-digit medal count. However, he declined to comment on Indian cricket and the newly appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir.Dev expressed his optimism for the growth of golf in India, recalling his own experience playing amateur events. He hopes that the sport will reach the same heights as cricket in the future. He emphasized the importance of sponsorship in promoting the game and predicted that golf could reach significant milestones within five years.The Trinity Golf Champions League (TGCL), which Dev is an ambassador for, is expanding to eight teams this year, including one from Sri Lanka. The league will be held in Bengaluru from September 2 to 7 and will feature a unique format similar to the Ryder Cup. Each team will comprise 20 players, including professionals, celebrities, and amateurs.The winning team will receive a prize of Rs 30 lakh, while the second and third-placed teams will receive Rs 15 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, respectively. Dev expressed his hope that the prize money for the TGCL winners will reach one million dollars within the next five years.

Simone Biles, the legendary gymnast, is set to make a triumphant return to the Olympic stage in Paris 2024. After withdrawing from several events in Tokyo due to twisties, a temporary loss of spatial awareness, Biles has proven her resilience and determination by securing her third consecutive Olympic appearance with an all-around win at the US trials.Biles' journey to greatness began at the tender age of six in Ohio. Her exceptional talent was evident from the start, and at just 16, she claimed two gold medals at the Antwerp Championship, including the coveted all-around title. She also unveiled her groundbreaking double layout with a half twist on the floor exercise, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.In 2014 and 2015, Biles dominated the World Championships, amassing four gold medals each year. Her Olympic debut in Rio 2016 was a resounding success, as she captured gold in the all-around, team, vault, and floor exercises, along with a bronze on the balance beam.Despite the challenges she faced in Tokyo, Biles has emerged stronger than ever. In 2023, she extended her tally of world and Olympic medals to an astonishing 37, including six world all-around titles. Her unwavering determination and mental fortitude have made her an inspiration to athletes and fans alike.Biles' coach, Cecile Landi, has witnessed her exceptional talent firsthand. "We always knew she could be better," Landi said. "She's the most talented athlete I've ever worked with. If she could master her mental game as well as her physical game, she would be close to unstoppable."Responding to critics who questioned her commitment after Tokyo, Biles displayed her characteristic resilience. "They'll still say, 'Oh my gosh, you're going to quit again?'" she said. "But I've already dealt with it for three years. They want to see us fail, but they'll miss us when we're gone."Biles' performance at the Olympic trials was a testament to her unwavering spirit. "Nobody's forcing me to do it," she said. "I choose to grind in the gym and perform for myself. Just to remind myself that I can still do it."As the oldest woman gymnast to represent the US since Marie Hoesly in 1952, Biles will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in Paris. Her return to the Olympic stage is a testament to her indomitable spirit and her unwavering pursuit of greatness.

Deepa Malik, India's pioneering Paralympic medalist, has been appointed as the sub-regional representative for South Asia by the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC). This historic appointment marks a significant step towards gender diversity and athlete-centric leadership in para-sports.Malik's appointment brings the number of female representatives on the APC Executive Board to five, the highest in the organization's history. Her role will involve representing South Asian nations and advocating for the development and promotion of para-sports across the region.APC President Majid Rashed hailed Malik's appointment, recognizing her extensive experience and skills. He expressed confidence that she would effectively represent the South Asia Sub Region on the APC Executive Board.Malik expressed her honor and commitment to her new role. She emphasized the importance of representing South Asia and contributing to the collective growth of para-sports. Her appointment aligns with the Paralympic Committee of India's (PCI) mission to foster excellence and inclusivity in para-sports.PCI President Devendra Jhajharia welcomed Malik's appointment, calling it a defining moment for Indian Paralympics. He pledged PCI's collaboration with Malik and the APC to develop para-sports in the region.Malik's appointment showcases India's leadership and commitment to the global para-sports community. It is a testament to her unwavering dedication to empowering athletes with disabilities and promoting the transformative power of sports.

As the world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Paris Olympics, three legendary Indian hockey Olympians share their memories and insights.Vasudevan BaskaranBaskaran, the captain of India's historic gold medal-winning team at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, recalls the thrill of meeting Muhammad Ali and Carl Lewis at the Olympic village. He emphasizes the importance of networking and the unique experience of the Olympics, where athletes from all sports come together. Baskaran is optimistic about India's chances in Paris, predicting a double-digit medal tally.Muneer SaitSait, the goalkeeper of the 1968 Mexico City Olympics bronze medal-winning team, expresses his disappointment at missing out on gold due to internal team conflicts. However, he takes pride in his bronze medal, which has become a cherished possession. Sait believes that the current hockey team has excellent fitness but laments the decline in the sport's popularity in India.Charles CorneliusCornelius, a goalkeeper who won a bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics, shares his unique experience of being the only South Indian in a team of Punjabis. He highlights the importance of a goalkeeper's role in stopping the ball and preventing it from becoming a pass to the opponent. Cornelius is hopeful for the current team but expresses concern about the lack of interest in outdoor sports among the younger generation.The Future of Indian HockeyThe Olympians agree that the current Indian hockey team has the potential to perform well in Paris. They attribute this to the team's improved fitness and the leadership of experienced players. However, they also acknowledge the need to address the decline in the sport's popularity and encourage more young people to take up hockey.

The 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, promises to be a spectacle of athleticism and sporting excellence. The Games will feature a record-breaking 10,500 athletes, including seasoned veterans who have graced the Olympic stage for years.Among the most anticipated athletes to watch are:Rafael Nadal (Tennis): The Spanish legend, known for his dominance on clay, will likely make his final Olympic appearance in Paris. With 14 French Open titles to his name, Nadal will be a formidable contender on the Roland Garros courts.Caleb Dressel (Swimming): The American swimmer, who won five gold medals in Tokyo, will be looking to defend his titles in the 50m freestyle and 100m butterfly. Despite a brief hiatus due to mental health issues, Dressel has returned to form and is poised for another stellar performance.Simone Biles (Gymnastics): The American gymnast, who withdrew from several events in Tokyo due to "twisties," has made a triumphant return. She will be aiming to add to her impressive Olympic medal count, which includes four golds and one bronze.Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (Athletics): The Jamaican sprinter, a legend in her own right, will be competing in her fifth and final Olympics. With eight Olympic medals, including three golds, Fraser-Pryce is determined to cement her legacy as one of the greatest sprinters of all time.LeBron James (Basketball): The NBA icon, turning 40 this year, will make his fourth Olympic appearance. A three-time Olympic gold medalist and the NBA's all-time leading scorer, James will be a key player for Team USA.These seasoned veterans, along with countless other talented athletes, will converge in Paris for an unforgettable Olympic experience. The Games will showcase the pinnacle of human athleticism and provide unforgettable moments that will inspire generations to come.

The 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, promises to be a spectacle like no other. For the first time in Olympic history, the opening ceremony will not take place in a stadium but will instead embark on a captivating journey along the Seine River.The ceremony will commence at the Pont d'Austerlitz bridge, where boats carrying over 200 delegations of athletes will set sail. The procession will traverse six kilometers along the river, passing iconic landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. The boats will culminate their journey at the Pont d'Lena, situated near the Eiffel Tower.The official opening ceremony will take place at the Champions Park, a temporary stadium erected in front of the Trocadero, by the Eiffel Tower. French President Emmanuel Macron will deliver the opening declaration, marking the official commencement of the Games.The ceremony will feature performances by over 3,000 artists, although the details of these performances remain under wraps. To accommodate spectators, 3,26,000 tickets have been made available for viewing the boat procession, with temporary stands erected along the riverbanks. Additionally, 2,22,000 free tickets will be distributed for viewing from the upper banks, while the lower quays will offer tickets ranging from 90 to 2,700 euros. Giant screens will also be set up throughout the city to ensure that everyone can witness this historic event.Security concerns have been a major consideration for the organizers, given the recent resurgence of extremist Islamist attacks in Europe. A rehearsal was canceled due to strong river currents, highlighting the challenges faced by the organizers. Alternative plans have been proposed, including hosting the ceremony at Trocadero Square facing the Eiffel Tower or at the Stade de France.

India will send a contingent of 117 athletes and 140 support staff to the upcoming Paris Olympics, which will be held from July 26 to August 11. The contingent includes 29 athletes in athletics, 21 in shooting, and 19 in hockey. Other sports represented include table tennis (8), badminton (7), wrestling (6), archery (6), boxing (6), golf (4), tennis (3), swimming (2), sailing (2), equestrian (1), judo (1), rowing (1), and weightlifting (1).The contingent will be led by chef-de-mission Gagan Narang, a former Olympic bronze medalist in shooting. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has been allocated 11 contingent officials, including five medical team members, who will be accommodated in the Games Village. An additional 72 support staff, including coaches, physios, and psychologists, will be accommodated in hotels outside the Games Village at government expense.The shooting contingent, which is the second largest, consists of 11 women and 10 men. The athletics contingent includes 11 women and 18 men, while the table tennis contingent has four players in each category. Tokyo Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu is the lone weightlifter in the contingent and will compete in the women's 49kg category.The government has emphasized the importance of anti-doping measures and has asked the IOA and concerned federations to take appropriate steps to avoid any doping embarrassments. The Paris Organizing Committee will provide three cars for the Indian contingent without drivers, and the Indian Embassy in Paris will assist in identifying and hiring temporary drivers.

Anjum Moudgil, a former world no. 1 shooter, has overcome mental challenges to secure a berth at the Paris Olympics. After being left out of the Indian team for the Asian Games and World Championships last year, Moudgil worked on her mental toughness and focused on her training.Moudgil, who competed in two events in Tokyo, will only participate in the women's 50m 3 position in Paris. She admitted that being dropped from the team for the Worlds and Asian Games due to inconsistent form was an eye-opener."I really took advantage of quotas and trials," Moudgil said. "I was too focused and positive in giving my best in the trials. I knew my strengths and how to work under pressure, and it paid off."Moudgil emphasized the importance of mental health, noting that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has set up a Mentally Fit Helpline for athletes. "It's so important for all the federations and IOC to understand," she said. "It's important to understand the mental side, understand how it works for an athlete, understand mental toughness."India has named a strong 21-member shooting contingent for the Paris Games, including many youngsters. Moudgil is confident in the team's abilities. "All of them are confident, the team is doing very well," she said. "My expectation is for everyone to give their best, everyone going with a positive mindset."Moudgil is counting on her difficult Tokyo experience to shine in Paris. "Competing in one rather than two events both have positive and negative sides, but I am happy," she said. "The competition is very high in India and the pressure situations we face during trials will definitely help in Olympics."The shooting competitions of the Paris Olympics will be held at the National Shooting Center in Châteauroux, France. Moudgil is currently in Luxembourg for the final phase of her training before heading to France on July 21st.