Bhubaneswar: Odisha is gearing up to host the prestigious 40th Sub Junior and 50th Junior Aquatic Nationals Championship 2024 at the state-of-the-art aquatic center at Kalinga Stadium from 6-11 August. Over 1000 participants will compete for medals and aim to set new records during the six-day event.
This championship is crucial for swimmers as it serves as a selection criterion for the Asian Age Group Championship. The event is organized by the Swimming Federation of India, in collaboration with the Odisha State Swimming Association and the Sports & Youth Services Department.
Odisha will be represented by a team of 39 talented swimmers, comprising 21 boys and 18 girls. Among the strong medal contenders are Mannata Mishra, Anshika Sahoo, and Dhanvi Bhaumik in the girls’ group, and Aritro Mallick and Jagjit Pradhan in the boys’ group.
The competition will feature seven event categories, including freestyle and butterfly, providing a platform for young swimmers to showcase their skills and set new records. This is the third time Odisha is hosting the Sub Junior and Junior Aquatic Nationals, highlighting the state’s dedication to promoting swimming and nurturing talent.
The Kalinga Stadium aquatic center, known for its world-class facilities, has received widespread praise from swimmers and parents alike during previous editions. Equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure, it offers an ideal environment for athletes to perform at their best. The aquatic center is a key part of Odisha’s efforts to develop a robust sports ecosystem for swimming, further solidifying the state’s reputation as a leading sports destination.
Odisha remains committed to promoting sports and providing athletes with top-notch facilities and support, with swimming being one of the priority sports for the state.
Secretary General of the Swimming Federation of India (SFI), Monal Chokshi, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “The Sub Junior and Junior Aquatic Nationals is a crucial event for identifying and nurturing young talent. Odisha’s commitment to creating a world-class venue and supporting the development of swimming is commendable. We are confident that this championship will not only be a platform for remarkable performances but also inspire a new generation of swimmers.”
As the countdown begins, anticipation is high for the Sub Junior and Junior Aquatic Nationals Championship 2024. With strong contenders and a top-notch venue, the event promises to be an exciting and memorable experience for participants and spectators alike.