Chetak, Bijli, Bhabhi and Hawaa-Hawaai.

These are just a few names adorning the jerseys of the athletics team, in an attempt to keep their spirits up in a time of such gruelling practice and a maddening schedule. When asked about the same, Anuradha Bansal, athletics girls’ captain and last year’s Javelin Throw gold medalist candidly said, ‘Mine was going to read Manmohan, because I don’t talk much out there, but I got it changed to Anu. I can’t have Manmohan on my final jersey as a captain!’

On the other hand, Aditya Rehlan, athletics boys’ captain, had little time for such small talk. Competing in BOSM as a shot putter, he was interviewed right after an intense two-hour practice session. Emphasising the role of team bonding, even in the individual-centric sports of athletics, he said, ‘When we practice together, we are not only preparing to compete against other teams, but also amongst ourselves. This internal rivalry plays a crucial part in bringing out the best in each individual.’

Coming to the fest itself, Rehlan sounded optimistic about his team’s chances. His team will be expected to compete against state-level athletes, but Rehlan sounded certain of, at least, a few podium finishes. Similarly, Anuradha, with four new second-years and a total of six runners on her team this time, is optimistic about her team’s chances of winning a few medals and giving the boys a run for their money.

It is no hidden secret that the conditions in BITS for the last few years haven’t been ideal for an athletics team. With GymG under construction, the team has been forced to practice off campus. In addition to that, the support by fellow students for the athletics team has been less than stellar. Rehlan is frank in admitting that all is not well, but at the same time, he animatedly explains that if one is passionate enough about the sport, these hurdles are not insurmountable.

Perseverance always pays off, and our beloved athletics team deserves this new advancement more than anyone else. All track and field events will be held inside campus, serving a treat to all BITSian eyes. Last year, BITS Pilani brought the 100m gold medal home after a long dry spell, and it was very unfortunate that most BITSians were not present to witness it. But the new tracks laid in GymG will ensure that this isn’t going to happen again. Anuradha sounded excited and thinks it will increase viewership; at least their friends can come over and cheer for them. ‘Since the BITSian junta is not quite exposed to a lot of track and field events, they will get to experience how it actually happens,’ she adds.