Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s star swimmer Shristi Upadhaya delivered a standout performance on the opening day of the 78th Senior National Aquatic Championships 2025, clinching the gold medal in the women’s 100m butterfly event at Kalinga Stadium.
Clocking an impressive 1:03.50, Shristi outpaced a fiercely competitive field to secure the top podium finish. The win marks her first individual gold at the senior national level, adding a new milestone to her career.
Speaking after the event, an elated Shristi said, “I am very happy to win the gold medal on the first day of the championships. It is my first individual medal and a huge confidence boost.” She added that she is now focusing on her next races in the 50m and 200m butterfly events, with her sights set on qualifying for the upcoming Asian Championships and Asian Games.
The five-day championship, which features top swimmers from across the country, was formally inaugurated earlier in the day by Odisha Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. He was joined by Swimming Federation of India President RN Jayprakash and senior sports officials at the opening ceremony.
