Ace long jumper Anju Bobby George’s recent performances may not have impressed many, but she and her husband-coach Robert have chalked out a comprehensive 11-month plan to achieve a podium finish at the Beijing Olympic Games.

Their build-up commences on October 15 at their training base in Bangalore.

Speaking about their plans from Bangalore, Robert said Anju has won a medal in the Asian Games and World Championships but not in Olympics, “so we want to go all out this time”. At the Athens Games in 2004, Anju faltered after a bright start.

Robert said they will leave no stone unturned for a medal in Beijing. He said that October to May will be the preparatory period. There will be some low-key competitions too. Anju may participate in the Asian Indoor meet in November. Thereafter, each of the six months till May, says Robert, Anju will take part in at least one competition. “All the competitions will help us gauge the progress,” he said.

However, Anju will skip the world indoor competition in March, because till then only low key meets will be attempted. But she has decided to participate in domestic competitions, including the National Games.

From April, the ace jumper will also make her appearance on the European circuit. This, however, will be restricted to a few competitions. “The main idea is to build up for the big day and not to get exhausted too early in the season. It could hamper results in the Olympics,” he said.

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