Bhubaneswar to Host Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championships

Bhubaneswar: The city is gearing up to host the Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championships for the 2023-24 season, an event eagerly awaited by gymnastics enthusiasts.

Scheduled to commence on 28 December, the Junior Championship will run until 30 December, followed by the Senior Championship from 2 to 4 January 2024. The Gymnastics Centre at Kalinga Stadium is abuzz with preparations to welcome a total of 750 participants, comprising 550 players, 120 support staff, and 100 officials, promising a spirited atmosphere of competition and sportsmanship.

The Sports and Youth Services Department, in collaboration with the Odisha Gymnastics Association and the Gymnastics Federation of India, is going to host this championship which is poised to become a celebration of top-notch gymnastic talent from across the country.

With active participation from 28 affiliated units of the Gymnastics Federation of India, this championship will serve as a melting pot of diverse talent, as gymnasts from various regions converge in Bhubaneswar. The venue, equipped with cutting-edge facilities and advanced training equipment, is set to witness exceptional performances from gymnasts who have honed their skills to perfection.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, Vineel Krishna, Sports & Youth Services Secretary, Odisha, said “Gymnastics holds a special place among our priority sports, and hosting the Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championships 2023-24 is a matter of pride for us. This event not only provides a platform for our gymnasts to compete at the highest level but also offers a valuable learning experience. Working closely with the Gymnastics Federation of India and Odisha Gymnastics Association, we are committed to ensuring a world-class experience for both junior and senior gymnasts. A warm welcome to all participants, and we extend our best wishes for a successful championship.”

Sudhir Mital, President of the Gymnastics Federation of India, expressed gratitude, saying, “We are thrilled to host the Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championship in the vibrant city of Bhubaneswar, known for its exceptional infrastructure. This prestigious event provides junior and senior participants with the invaluable experience of showcasing their skills at a world-class venue. Our sincere thanks to the Government of Odisha and the Odisha Gymnastics Association for their steadfast support and meticulous preparations in hosting these National Championships.”

The Senior Championship will feature esteemed gymnasts such as Olympian Pranati Nayak, Yogeshwar Singh, Rakesh Patra, Tapan Mohanty, Saif Tamboli, Gaurav Kumar, and many others, promising spectators a spectacular display of gymnastic prowess.