The mood was rather relaxed at the Athletes Village here yesterday on the eve of the 18th Asian Games. Some of the near-17 thousand athletes and officials were seen in team huddles probably discussing strategy, some strolling around in pairs, others chatting under trees, while some simply smiling around the massive complex that features 15 multi-storeyed towers fitted with 7,426 residential units that can accommodate over 20,000 people.

This is in stark contrast to the mood that will be prevalent across the dozen-plus venues that will host over 40 sporting disciplines across the next fortnight. Among the prominent Indian athletes on view were some of the badminton players and wrestlers, all of whom seemed confident of a fine show. Doubles shuttler Sikki Reddy said that the contingent is happy with the facilities and is eager to compete with Asia's best. "We have been training hard. The facilities are great and we are looking forward to the Games," she said.