AFI to revamp calendar; to enhance prize money for athletes

New Delhi, Apr 23 (UNI) Stating that lack of technological support, incentives for athletes, scattered events and the absence of glamour are the primary ''drawbacks'' of the current system, AFI secretary Lalit K Bhanot today said the federation will revamp the calender and the prize money structure.

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) was planning to change the current system through new initiatives to make athletes financialy stable.

''Currently a Grand Prix has a maximum prize money of Rs 2.5 lakh, we plan to enhance that and make sure that athletes earn at least Rs 25 lakh every year,'' Bhanot told mediapersons here.

To enhance the performance of the athletes, the AFI will introduce a grading system that will put them in three different pay scales.

''This system will motivate those in C category to aim for better money and perks in the A category, besides inspiring A category athletes to maintain their existing performance to remain in the elite group,'' Bhanot said.

The elite category would have a base payment of Rs 5 to 10 lakh and would include those in the top-50 of world rankings and Asian Games gold medallists.

The second category will comprise those ranked between 50 to 100 in the world, Asian Games silver and bronze winners and Asian Championship gold winners.

The last category will be a general one.

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