Olympic gold medalist and world champion Gabriela Szabo said she is happy to find so many participants running this year in the Mumbai marathon, which has taken distance running to an all new level in a cricket-obsessed nation.
"It's great to see so many people from Mumbai coming together, which is great for the sport. And due to this event, the mentality has changed towards the sport," the Romanian athlete said.
Szabo said Romainian athletes have a good set-up to promote the sport despite football being a favourite among the people.
"The government provides us adequate support and funding for us to participate in events outside the country. They invest a lot money in Olympic sports," she said.
Szabo, who retired in February 2004 said she was not fit enough compete in the Athens Olympics.
She earlier won gold in the 5000 meters in the Sydney Olympics and World Championships in Athens and Sevilla in the same category.
"I have achieved everything, so there are no regrets and no complaints. People at home are proud of my achievements and that is important for me," she added.
Speaking about Marion Jones's doping controversy, she said she knew her and feels sorry for her.
"One should be clean in sports and where she is today she is responsible for herself," she added.
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