Fitter Arokia Rajiv gears up for World Athletics Championships

CHENNAI: Arokia Rajiv, who won silver in the men’s 400m event at the recently-held Asian Athletics Championships in Bhubaneshwar, fought many odds to finish at the podium.
From low haemoglobin levels in blood to malfunctioning of liver, Rajiv endured a tough time. With the London World championships just days away, Rajiv will be part of the 4X400m relay team which also includes his statemate Mohan Kumar Raja, Amoj Jacob, Kunhu Mohammed and Sachin Roby.
"During the Asian championships, my timings were getting affected due to my health. But now I have got a lot better. From having tonics for my liver to ensuring I have proper food - I have done it all. My health has only got better in the last few weeks," Rajiv told TOI from Patiala where he trains at the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports.
The 2014 Asian Games bronze medalist was second in the men’s 400m event in Bhubaneshwar and was part of the 4x400m relay team which also included Muhammed Kunju, Amoj Jacob and Muhammed Anas. The team won gold in 3:02.92s. Speaking on the preparations, Rajiv said - "We have done whatever was possible to be ready for London. This is the first time I am going there and the first aim for the team will be to make the final. From thereon, it is anybody’s race and we are quite confident of doing well."
Rajiv’s statemate Mohan Kumar feels the side has a very good chance of making a mark in the premier tournament. "We are one of the top teams in Asian nations and we have been consistent in our performances," he said. The 4X400m relay event will be held on August 12.