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Sailing umpire impressed with sport standard in India
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ASIANAGE on 15 October, 2008 02:02:44
 
BY SHARDA WADHWA
Mumbai
International sailing umpire Alfredo Ricci is impressed with the standard of
the sport in India. The Italian is in Mumbai to referee the ISAF Nations Cup
from October15 to 18. He believes that if nourished properly, Indian sailors
will put up a good show in the London Olympics.
"Compared to other Asian nations, India certainly has sailors who can perform
well at the next Olympics. The only drawback I see is that there is no support
and awareness for this sport among the people," Ricci said.
"If Indian sailors managed to win silver in the 2006 Asian Games with no
support, imagine how many more medals they can win if the government and
sponsors show interest in sailing. I am sure there’s nothing to stop them," he
said after training the Indian contingent during the event.
Ricci was on the international panel at the recent Olympic Games. Being a
sailor himself, he sometimes feels the itch to participate, just to challenge
his skills.
"At times I feel like taking out my boat and participating in the ongoing races
but as a referee I have to hold back my urge and keep my mouth shut and not give
any instructions to the participants while I am working," Ricci said.
"I enjoyed my Beijing experience — the Olympic Village was huge. I will never
forget the opening ceremony. It was exceptional," he recalled.
According to the Italian, India was suitable for sailing being a coastal
country and that there could be more sailing events to give exposure to sailors
and create awareness and about the sport.
"Such events will give exposure to sailors. More events of international
standards can be oraganised here as there are a lot of places that one can sail
in. Also, the India Navy has sailing in its curriculum so other schools can tie
up with the Navy, which is ready to teach the sport," said Ricci.