Indian Olympic Association Partners with Samsonite for Asian Games

IOA Collaborates with Samsonite for Asian Games Support

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced a partnership with Samsonite, a renowned travel luggage company, to support the Indian contingent heading to the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. The continental mega event is scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 8, 2022.

Premium Suitcases for Indian Contingent

As part of this collaboration, members of the Indian contingent will travel to the Asian Games with premium suitcases provided by Samsonite. These suitcases will be designed to carry the official kit for the Asian Games 2022.

IOA President PT Usha emphasized that this partnership signifies the union of leaders committed to excellence. She stated, “The provision of a premium suitcase, designed for the official kit for the Asian Games 2022, to each member of the Indian team is a symbol of the support and belief that the entire nation, and brands of global repute like Samsonite, bestow upon our champions.”

Athletes Express Gratitude

Indian Table Tennis star A Sharath Kamal, who won two bronze medals in the previous Asian Games in Jakarta, welcomed the partnership. He emphasized the significance of athletes traveling with premium suitcases containing their playing kits and ceremonial dresses, noting that it enhances their pride and confidence.

Samsonite’s Honored Role

Jai Krishnan, CEO of Samsonite India, expressed honor in being a part of the Indian athletes’ journey. He stated, “Samsonite has always been about journeys. And there’s none more heart-stirring than the one our athletes are embarking on. We are honored to be a small but significant part of their journey.”

Athlete Participation

Previously, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) had approved the participation of 634 athletes across 38 sporting disciplines for the upcoming Asian Games, based on the set selection criteria. This decision was made in contrast to the 850 athletes initially recommended by the IOA. In the previous edition of the Asian Games in 2018, India fielded a total of 572 athletes and secured 70 medals, including 16 gold medals.