‘Ashish Kumar's feat is no less than an Olympic medal’

Gymnast Ashish Kumar scripted history by winning bronze a medal in China, chief coach Vladimir Chertkov said on Tuesday.

The top spot was shared by China’s Chenglong Zhang and South Korean’s Soo Myun Kim, who finished at an identical scoreline of 15.40.

“China is a tough place to win a medal and that too in gymnastic. I think, Ashish has done a superb job and has proved that his future is bright,” Chertkov told DNA from New Delhi.

Chertkov felt that Ashish’s victory in the floor exercise win will boost the morale of Indian gymnasts. “I feel, the way he is performing as of now, I won’t be surprised if he wins an Olympic medal in London,” he said.

When asked about the competition, the coach said that Guangzhou had the toughest competition for this sport.
“The three master countries in this sport are China, Japan and Korea. The competition couldn’t have been tougher, so if he has won a medal here, it’s not less than an Olympic medal, as he has competed with the best in the world,” said the proud coach.

When asked about the strength of his ward, he said the Allahabad boy is disciplined and that makes him the best in the country. “He is hard working and disciplined. He had worked hard for past one year and it is paying dividends now. He followed the programme, which I made for him and I am happy to see him bring medals for the country,” said the coach.

Chertkov said that the team can go much ahead if the same routine is continued. “It has been only one year and the result is showing clearly. We have many flaws, which will be improved if the same kind of programme is continued. The day is not far when we can become one of the leaders in gymnastic,” he said.