Bhubaneswar successfully hosted elite global athletes at Kalinga Stadium

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed immense pride after Bhubaneswar successfully hosted the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver Meet. Kalinga Stadium welcomed over 180 competitors from 28 nations on August 22. This prominent single-day championship featured 18 track and field events. It recently earned an upgrade from its previous Bronze-level status.

Speaking to the press, CM Majhi emphasized that hosting such international tournaments boosts the state's reputation. He outlined clear plans to expand local sports infrastructure to drive sports tourism forward. His administration is actively building new facilities just two years into their term. Odisha has steadily transformed into India's premier sporting hub over the past decade.

Indian Competitors Shine Brightly

Athletics Federation of India Senior Vice-President Anju Bobby George praised the home-ground advantage. She noted that competing against elite international talent offers critical preparation for the upcoming Commonwealth and Asian Games.

Domestic talent dominated several key categories. Rohit Yadav captured gold in the men's javelin throw. He launched a personal best of 87.68 meters on his final attempt. This remarkable feat ranks as the fourth-best throw globally this season. Yash Vir Singh secured second place with an 82.94-meter effort.

Record Breaking Track Performances

Murali Sreeshankar clinched victory in the long jump by leaping 8.07 meters. He narrowly defeated South African challenger Divan Manuel, who recorded 8.03 meters, while David Solomon finished third with 7.78 meters.

Female Indian athletes also delivered exceptional results. Ancy Sojan led a clean sweep in the women's long jump with a 6.71-meter mark, finishing ahead of Shaili Singh and Mubassina Mohammed. Teenage sprinter Abinaya Rajarajan stormed to victory in the 100-meter dash. She crossed the finish line in 11.34 seconds, successfully reclaiming the Indian Under-20 national record.