The 1972 Munich Olympics was a good experience but also a sad one because of the terrorist attack on Israeli athletes. We were to play against Pakistan in the semifinals and there was a break of one day. But a lot happened in that one day. That incident spoilt our mood and it should never happen again because Olympics is an event that unites people and to win a medal is something great.

But apart from that tragic incident, I was a bit disappointed because India could not do well in the semifinals against Pakistan. We got 18 penalty corners but could not convert any. We lost that match.

Apart from the sad incidents, the Munich Olympics was also a great opportunity for us to meet some of the best athletes in the world. We met the American swimming great Mark Spitz, who got seven medals. BP Govinda and I are good friends and we used to sit together for breakfast and that gave us an opportunity to run into several top players.

The facilities at the Munich Games were also top class and it was supposed to be the best Olympics conducted till then. For instance, there was a very good information centre and any kind of data about any player could be accessed there. Taking part in the Olympics is something that is truly wonderful for any sportsperson.

—Former hockey forward MP Ganesh played in the 1972 Munich Olympics. He spoke to Vivek Phadnis

source: http://www.dnaindia.com / Daily News & Analysis / Home> Sport> Report / by Vivek Phadnis / Agency: DNA / Tuesday, July 03rd, 2012