At the Asian Games in Nagoya, India's rowing contingent found themselves stranded with no accommodation, a shock that rattled the squad. Only 3 of the 22 men had lodgings booked, while 3 of the 5 women rowers—Poonam, Aleena Anto and Anshika Bharati—were missing from the host’s accreditation list, according to an RFI official.
Before even boarding, the team was told by Cathay Pacific that their oars couldn’t be checked in, forcing the gear to be flown to Delhi. They finally reach Nagoya on Thursday, just in time for the first practice session—late, tired and hungry.
Shooting didn’t fare better. The shooters waited nearly three hours for transport after a 9 pm arrival, with no bus and no food. Coach Samaresh Jung was shocked to find his accreditation barred him from the arena, a glitch that could dent India’s 10 m air pistol medal chances.
Equestrian riders were left to foot the bill for hay, bedding and feed, as the IOA’s ad‑hoc committee cited a shortage of government funds. Riders claim they must purchase essentials themselves and claim reimbursements later, adding financial strain to their already grueling prep.
Officials said the IOA would sort the accreditation and reimbursement issues, but athletes are demanding immediate support to keep focus on performance. “We’re ready to compete, but we’re not ready for this chaos,” said a rower.
As the Games kick off, Indian athletes must regroup and focus on medal prospects, hoping the administrative mess won’t affect their chances on the field.