The Karnataka Amateur Athletic club has shifted the 400m relay race from Sree Kanteerava stadium to Mysuru owing to the poor condition of the track. The event is expected to take place in May. The Kanteerava stadium hadn’t conducted any National event in the past two years
“The main issue is we are not able to use the stadium as the Indian Super League is going on. Moreover, most of the functions are held here so the stadium remains closed for at least 2 to 3 days,” says Jayprakash Shetty, a sprinter.
There have been instances of holes appearing on the track, which hasn’t been revamped since past eight years.
“When any football matches happen prior to that they shift the goal post 2-3 metres towards the high jump side”, said Sd Eshion, an athletic coach.
The athletes have been denied access to the ground ever since the Bangalore Football Club signed a contract with DYES to host ISL matches in the stadium.
“This is hampering the performance of the athletes who are preparing for upcoming Commonwealth games and national events”, said Chandrasekhar Rai, Secretary KAAA.
The athletes are left with no option but to warm up, stretch and practice in the running track itself.
