Bhubaneswar Hosts First National Indoor Athletics Championships at Kalinga Stadium

Bhubaneswar: The inaugural edition of the National Indoor Athletics Championships is set to begin on Tuesday at the Kalinga Stadium, marking a significant milestone in Indian athletics.

Describing the event as a “new beginning” for the sport, Bahadur Singh Sagoo, President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), said the championship will provide athletes with an opportunity to expand their competitive experience. “Competitors are excited to add a new chapter to their athletics profile,” he said during an interaction with the media.

The two-day championship has attracted 278 entries, including 97 women athletes, bringing together both emerging talents and seasoned performers. Sagoo noted that the indoor format would serve as a valuable platform for athletes to test their skills on a 200m indoor track, potentially boosting future competitions.

Among the key participants, Odisha’s rising sprinter Animesh Kujur is gearing up for the 60m dash, expressing enthusiasm about competing in his first indoor event on home turf. The national record holder in 100m and 200m said he is looking forward to a strong start to the 2026 season.

Experienced international athlete Praveen Chithravel, known for his achievements in triple jump, will compete in the men’s long jump. Having participated in indoor meets across Europe and Asia, he highlighted the unique appeal of indoor competitions, noting that the close setting enhances athlete–audience interaction and boosts confidence.

Yeddula Vijay, Director of Sports, Odisha, underscored the importance of the indoor facility at Kalinga Stadium, stating that it enables athletes to train and compete in all-weather conditions, significantly benefiting their preparation.

The championship will feature events across senior and U-20 categories, with the men’s 3,000m race set to be the first medal event on the opening day. The competition will conclude on Wednesday, setting the stage for a new era in India’s athletics landscape.