Bengaluru hosts Para Athletics meet from July 11

Bengaluru

Bengaluru is ready to welcome over 262 of India’s best para athletes for the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship on July 11 (today) and 12 at the famous Kanteerava Stadium. This big event is important because it will help select athletes for the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, which will happen later this year.

Many top Indian para athletes will compete, including two-time Paralympic gold winner Sumit Antil in the F64 javelin throw. Other big names include Praveen Kumar in high jump, Yogesh Kathuniya in discus throw, Dharambir Nain in club throw, Rinku Hooda in javelin, and Simran in the 100m and 200m races.

Devendra Jhajharia, president of the Paralympic Committee of India, said this championship is more than just a competition. It is a celebration of strength, excellence, and national pride. He believes the event will help finalize the team that will represent India at the World Championships. He also wished all athletes the best and said he looks forward to seeing their talent.

Athletes are excited too. Yogesh Kathuniya said this meet is special and motivates him to prepare for the world stage. Sprinter Simran, who won gold at the Kobe 2024 Asian Championships, shared that racing at home gives her extra energy and focus.

India hopes to win many medals at the upcoming World Championships. This championship in Bengaluru is seen as an important step. The event is supported by Balmer Lawrie, AMFI, Leonard Cheshire Disability, and Cognizant Foundation.