A new chapter of memories for golf and India at The Olympics

The curtains have be drawn on the greatest sporting spectacle on our planet. The XXXI Olympiad in Rio de Janeiro has come to a close, leaving us another chapter of memories. The heroics of PV Sindhu, Sakshi Malik and Dipa Karmakar have drawn widespread appreciation from a country in awe of their courage and determination. The return of golf to the Olympics has been a welcome development for the game. Anirban Lahiri, SSP Chawrasia and Aditi Ashok turned proud Olympians as they became the first Indian golfers to have ever contested in an Olympics.

There is no doubt that the Olympics have been a big boost to the game in India. As Aditi reminded us after her final round in Rio, the Olympics have drawn a new band of fans to the game.

Chawrasia, with his efficiency and Aditi, with her exuberance have charmed Indian golfing fans with their performances in Rio. The angst riddled performance of Anirban underlined his love for the country and the intensity of his effort showcased how badly he wanted to do well for India.

It must be accepted that the athletes were burdened by the weight of their own expectations as they felt the overwhelming desire to give off their best in national colours. In the end it proved to be counterproductive, as each of them experienced scores that were well below their best.

The numbers may not have been as desired, but it was clear from the onset that golf in India emerged a big winner from the Olympics. It is a matter of pride that Anirban, Chawrasia and Aditi played well enough over the past year to gain qualification to the Olympics.

The XXXI Olympiad was a momentous event for golf overall, considering that the game made its way back to the hallowed podium after a 112 year hiatus. The clouds of negativity that seemed to hover over the games due to the mixed response from some of the big stars were quickly dispelled.

As soon as Adilson da Silva made an emotional first tee shot excitement and energy replaced the doubts that characterized the lead up to the games. Anirban, Chawrasia and Aditi gave it their all as they swung away with a keen desire to earn a medal at the Olympics.

The two even rounds by Chawrasia and the 68-68 start by Aditi gave fans enormous hope. Their efforts helped bring golf into the consciousness of several million Indian fans. At a time when golf is clearly at an inflection point, there is no doubt that the games might have inspired several young boys and girls to take up the game and swing away to glory. We are in for a bright golfing future.

The three young golfers will also be richer for their experience in Rio. We can certainly expect a far more dependable challenge from them when they turn out for India in Tokyo 2020.