Former runner Tim Hutchings, now a commentator, says India need to encourage more and more youngsters to take to running from a young age.
"India need to create a set-up to spot talent. They must first create an environment where kids get exposed to running and importantly enjoy it. It will take quite a few years to do that," Hutchings told IANS.
"In India, the talent pool is a very small pyramid. They really need to be caught in the fishing net. I think the federations are responsible for the growth but don't think they are doing much. Indian men run marathons in 2:20s which is what elite women do worldwide," says Hutchings, who finished fourth in 5000 metres at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
His views are shared by race director Hugh Jones who says that the lack of infrastructure is the reason why Indians are way behind.
