Odisha Athletes Gear Up for Khelo India Youth Games in Tamil Nadu

Bhubaneswar: The vibrant contingent from Odisha is set to embark on their journey from the 18th of January to participate in the much-anticipated Khelo India Youth Games 2023. Scheduled to unfold in Tamil Nadu from the 19th of January, the National competition will witness the spirited participation of 138 athletes from Odisha.

The multifaceted contingent will represent Odisha across a spectrum of sports, including Athletics, Football (Boys and Girls), Judo, Weightlifting, Cycling (Track and Road), Swimming, Hockey, Badminton, Gymnastics, Tennis, Mallakhamb, and Kho-kho. Demonstrating a commitment to promoting women in sports, the contingent comprises 76 female athletes, symbolizing the inclusive spirit of Odisha’s sports initiatives.

Expressing his best wishes to the departing athletes, Vineel Krishna, Secretary of the Sports & Youth Services Department, stated, “The Khelo India Youth Games provide a tremendous platform for our young athletes to showcase their talent at the national level. It is not just a competition but an opportunity for Odisha to shine in the sports arena. The development of our young athletes is a crucial aspect of our vision, and we eagerly anticipate their outstanding performances. I extend my best wishes to all the participating athletes.”

The Khelo India Youth Games operate as a team championship, where individual and team achievements contribute to the overall medal count of their respective State or Union Territory (UT). With access to top-notch infrastructure, state-of-the-art sports science facilities, and expert coaching, the Odisha contingent has been diligently preparing for KIYG 2024.

Building on the momentum from the previous edition, where Odisha clinched the ninth highest medal tally, including 11 gold, eight silver, and 11 bronze medals, the contingent aims to showcase their prowess in disciplines like Kayaking & Canoeing, Hockey, Tennis, and Athletics. The upcoming competition stands as a testament to Odisha’s commitment to fostering a culture of sports excellence and providing a stage for emerging talents to shine on the national stage.