Khelo India Junior Women’s Series Concludes with Odisha Swimmers Dominating the Pool

Bhubaneswar: The concluding day of the Khelo India Junior Women’s Series at the Aquatic Centre, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, witnessed fierce competition among women swimmers from Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and the host state, Odisha. The event featured an array of impressive performances across 10 challenging swimming events.

In the 200m backstroke category for the Under-18 division, Akankshya Naik from Odisha clinched the top spot, showcasing her prowess in the pool. The Under-15 segment of the same event saw Ridhima Pallavi Tiwari from Jharkhand securing the first position, with Odisha’s Arpita Seth closely following in second place.

Mannata Mishra, representing Odisha, dominated the 100m breaststroke in the Under-18 category, earning the top honor. Anchal Bag, another talented swimmer from Odisha, claimed the first position in the Under-15 division of the 100m breaststroke.

Vadra Satpathy, displaying exceptional skill, emerged victorious in the 400m freestyle event for the Under-18 age group, adding another feather to Odisha’s achievements. The 200m butterfly event in the Under-18 category witnessed a remarkable performance by Divyanka Divyajyoti Pradhan from Odisha, securing the coveted first position.

Arpita Samal, representing Odisha in the Under-15 category, showcased her prowess by securing the top position in the 200m butterfly event. Anshika Aradhana Sahu, another talented swimmer from Odisha, claimed victory in the 100m freestyle for the Under-15 age group.

The closing ceremony, presided over by Pradip Kumar Padhee, President of Odisha State Swimming Association, was attended by notable figures in the swimming community, including Surendra Nayak, Technical Head of the Swimming Association, Akshaya Pradhan, Vice President of the Association, Rabindra Rout, and Lakshmichandra Mahakur, Joint Secretary of the Swimming Federation of India. The winners were honored with cash awards in accordance with the Sports Authority of India’s policy, recognizing their outstanding achievements. The event received crucial technical support from JSW, Odisha, and enjoyed the backing of the Department of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Odisha.