Jamshedpur, March 4: The state’s kayaking and canoeing as well as rowing associations missed the first phase of training camps for the National Games but are gearing up to make up for it.

Jharkhand Kayaking and Canoeing Association (JKCA) has decided to rope in a Hungary-based coach to train the state probables for the mega event. The coach, officials said, would improve the prospects and performance in the forthcoming Games.

The coach, B. Balash, is now in Dehradun and so reaching him would not be difficult, said JKCA officials.

The rowing association and the JKCA are also planning to organise a 90-day training camp.

For kayaking and canoeing, officials said, they have got confirmation from Bhopal to organise the camp there. With Balash close by, they said, sportspersons can learn a thing or two at the camp.

The JKCA general secretary, S.M. Hashmi, said: “We decided to approach the Hungarian coach through our national federation, which confirmed that the facilities in Bhopal can be used for the training camp. The foreign coach would be an added benefit.”

The rowing body has opted a place close to home — Orissa. A request has been forwarded to the authorities concerned in Orissa seeking permission for the camp and Jharkhand officials are expecting a confirmation soon.

Around 15 boys and 15 girls would participate in the first phase of the training camp in the kayaking and canoeing discipline in Bhopal. About 20 boys and 10 girls would train at the rowing camps.

Sports officials said funds for the camps would not be a problem as the state sports ministry is allocating funds up to Rs 1.2 crore to sports associations.

“We would get the funds shortly and proper utilisation in these camps would be done,” said Hashmi, who is also a senior office-bearer of the rowing association.

Senior JKCA functionaries said domestic coaches would also benefit if the Hungarian comes to teach. “He can give useful tips to the local coaches accompanying players,” added Hashmi.