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Sikdar calls it a day

Zakia Maryam in Calcutta

In a shocking revelation, Jyotirmoy Sikdar, the golden girl of Indian track and field, today disclosed that she has retired from athletics following nagging leg injuries. She said she had faxed her decision to the All India Athletics Federation.

Sikdar left the ongoing national camp for the Sydney Olympics, in Patiala, midway and returned to Calcutta last night.

Talking to rediff.com from her Saheb Bagan residence in Narkeldanga, a visibly broken Sikdar said: "I just didn’t want to travel to Australia merely as a tourist especially when I know I can’t probably live up to the expectations of my people. You see, only a few years ago I had won two gold medals and one silver in different events at the Bangkok Asian Games. But the irony is that I will not be a part of the Sydney-bound Indian contingent."

Sikdar said she had sought the expertise of some renowned physiotherapists, but none could guarantee her fitness till the conclusion of this year's Olympics.

"My leg injuries are getting worse by every day. I know my decision may cause quite a bit of disappointment to many of my fellow countrymen who were pinning hopes on me for the Sydney Olympics."

Though Sikdar had been grappling with leg injuries for years, she never made them known to even her closest friends. After the Asian Games, this queen of Indian distance running took part in only one national meet, and her performance in it was far from impressive, giving critics an opportunity to question her abilities. In response, Sikdar had said that she would silence them at an appropriate occasion by winning some medals. She was obviously referring to the Sydney Olympics where she stood a good chance of doing well.

"I wanted to reply to my detractors by some impressive showings in this year’s Olympics, but I feel depressed that I’ll never be able to realise this dream of mine," Sikdar added with a choked voice.

Sikdar was also pained by the apathy shown to her by the state government and various sports bodies who failed to keep the promises they had made after the Bangkok Asian Games.

"Truth to tell, my decision has been prompted by various factors other than just leg injuries. I tried to fight all odds, but soon realised that I was fighting a losing battle."

On her future plans, Sikdar said that she will now pay more attention to her family. Simultaneously, she will also work hard on her physical regimen.

Will she try to make a come back as Shiny Abraham and P T Usha did in the past?

"I am not sure. If my injuries heal completely, I may return to track, but it is too premature to comment on that. Presently I am thinking on those lines."