New Delhi: Reigning Asian champion in 800 metres, Tintu Lukka hopes to get into peak form for the 2016 Olympic Games after running in a couple of tough races in Europe in May-June and then return there for more in July. The 27-year-old athlete from Kannaur (Kerala) will be participating in two international competitions in London and Prague on May 28 and June 6 respectively.
The National record-holder who was amongst the early birds in Indian athletics to qualify for Rio, will first compete in the BMC Grand Prix at Watford, London, on May 28, and then the Josef Odlozil Memorial competition in Prague (Czech Republic) on June 6.
The legendary P.T. Usha who is Lukka’s coach, said today from her P.T Usha School of Athletics in Koyilandi that her protege had started the season well with a 2.01sec race compared to her usual start of 2.03sec, which is a good sign for the times ahead. “Tintu usually starts the season with 2.03sec but this time she ran a race of 2.01sec. We are looking at running some good international competitions in May-June and then more in July,” said Usha, who finished fourth in the 400m hurdles at the 1984 Olympics and missed the Bronze medal by one-hundredth of a second.
The ‘Payolli Express’ further added, “Right now, it wouldn’t be correct to say that she (Tintu) is in peak form, but she’s definitely in good nick. I hope the exposure to international competitions will help her get into the zone for Rio. I’m hoping that she will run some good under-two minutes races there. We are also hoping to return to Europe in July for a few more races before the Olympic Games.” The duo’s departure for London is scheduled from New Delhi on May 26.
Tintu Lukka’s Personal Best in 800m: 1:59.17sec (National record). 2016 OG Qualification Standard in women’s 800m: 2:01.50sec.
