Kerala offers international training for athletes

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 11 (IANS) The Kerala government Saturday offered to bear the expenses for providing international training to the state's three star athletes, after their promising performances in the London Olympics.

"The state government is willing to sponsor the cost of international training to Mayookha Johnny, Tintu Luka and K.T. Irfan. They can do their training in any country they desire," said Kerala Sports Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar.

Kumar arrived from London after witnessing a few events in which the Kerala athletes took part.

"The athletes, their coaches and their family have to take a decision. We have made our stand clear and we wish to hear what they have to say to our offer," Kumar said.

Johnny did not get past the heats in the triple jump, while Luka went out in the 800 metres semi-final and Irfan finished 10th in the 20km walk.

"Once they agree to our proposal, we will set up an experts committee to decide upon the country that our athletes should go to," added Kumar.