Bhubaneswar: The Artistic Gymnastics Selection Trials for the Asian Games 2023 concluded on Wednesday at the Gymnastics Centre, Kalinga Stadium, in Bhubaneswar. The event, organized by the Gymnastics Federation of India in collaboration with the Sports & Youth Services Department of Odisha, showcased India’s top gymnasts competing for a spot in the Indian Gymnastics team for the upcoming Asian Games.
In the Men’s Senior Individual category, Yogeshwar Singh from Haryana, Rakesh Patra from Odisha, and Tapan Mohanty from Odisha, secured the top three spots. In the Women’s Senior Individual category, Dipa Karmakar took first place, followed by Pranati Das and Pranati Nayak in second and third place, respectively.
Dipa Karmakar, one of the favorites in the competition, delivered an exceptional performance in her category. Reflecting on her performance, she expressed, “I have given my best here, and I am determined to improve further. I am always committed to giving my hundred percent.”
Dipa Karmakar also acknowledged that Odisha is likely to produce many talented gymnasts due to the state’s dedication to the sport. She stated, “The High-Performance Centre’s standards are excellent, and with three more centers across Odisha, athletes will undoubtedly benefit and flourish.”
Bishweshwar Nandi, an esteemed Indian gymnastics coach, praised Dipa Karmakar’s performance and remarked, “It is not easy to make a strong comeback after an injury and perform so well. We had to be cautious in our approach, but we are extremely pleased with the result.” He also commended the facilities at the Gymnastics Centre and appreciated Odisha’s initiative in promoting the sport of gymnastics.
Tapan Mohanty, who secured his place in the Indian contingent for the Asian Games 2023, expressed his joy and gratitude, saying, “This was my first time participating in the Asian Games trials, and the competition featured top-quality athletes. It feels truly special to be selected to represent India, and I hope to make both India and Odisha proud.”
Reflecting on his experience as an Odisha AM/NS Gymnastics High-Performance Centre cadet, Tapan mentioned, “I wouldn’t have achieved this without the support system we have here. I have worked diligently, and my coaches have also put in tremendous effort to prepare me. The facilities, in my opinion, are superior to many international ones. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to train with other athletes here, which has helped me enhance my skills, and they have been incredibly supportive.”
The successful conclusion of the Artistic Gymnastics Selection Trials underscores Odisha’s commitment to strengthening competitive gymnastics in the state. The partnership between Odisha and AM/NS has resulted in the establishment of the High-Performance Centre in Bhubaneswar, along with academies in Puri, Jeypore, and Rourkela, aiming to develop the discipline at the grassroots level.
Ashok Kumar Mishra, the chief coach of the Odisha AM/NS Gymnastics High-Performance Centre, expressed his appreciation for the event, stating, “The tournament provided a fantastic platform for gymnasts from all over India to showcase their talent. I extend my gratitude to the Gymnastics Federation of India and the Sports & Youth Services Department of Odisha for organizing this tournament.”
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