Will Bengaluru Shine in the Indian Open Para Athletics Championship on July 11–12?
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Synopsis
Bengaluru is about to host the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, featuring over 262 elite para athletes. This pivotal event not only highlights the resilience and talent of these athletes but also serves as the final selection for the upcoming World Championships. Get ready to witness history in the making!
Key Takeaways
- Over 262 para athletes will participate in the championship.
- The event is crucial for final athlete selection for the World Championships.
- It will be held at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.
- Notable athletes like Sumit Antil will compete.
- The event is supported by Balmer Lawrie and others.
New Delhi, July 10 (NationPress) Bengaluru is poised to host over 262 of the nation’s most resilient para athletes for the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, which will be held on July 11 and 12 at the renowned Kanteerava Stadium.
This prestigious event serves as a vital opportunity in Indian para sports, acting as the final selection round for the Indian team that will participate in the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships later this year.
The championship is expected to feature an impressive array of Indian para athletes who have excelled internationally. Among the standout participants is two-time Paralympic gold medallist Sumit Antil competing in the F64 Javelin category, alongside notable athletes such as Praveen Kumar (High Jump, T44), Yogesh Kathuniya (Discus Throw, F56), Dharambir Nain (Club Throw, F51), Rinku Hooda (Javelin Throw, F46), and Simran (100m & 200m, T12).
Prior to the event, Devendra Jhajharia, president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), remarked, "The 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship is not merely a competition—it represents a celebration of resilience, excellence, and national pride. As we gear up for the New Delhi 2025 World Championships, this event is crucial for finalizing the athletes who will represent India on the world stage. I wish every athlete the best and am eager to witness their extraordinary talents in action."
The athletes are equally enthusiastic about this significant event. Yogesh Kathuniya, silver medallist at both the Paris and Tokyo Paralympics, expressed his excitement: "This meet is special. It’s our chance to demonstrate our readiness for the world stage. Competing here not only inspires me but also highlights the growing strength of para athletics in India."
Emerging sprint star Simran, who captured gold at the Kobe 2024 Asian Championships, stated, "I’m feeling strong and focused. Competing in front of a home crowd in Bengaluru provides me with extra motivation. This meet is crucial for all of us aiming for the World Championships in New Delhi."
With India aiming for a record-breaking performance at the upcoming New Delhi World Championships, this championship in Bengaluru is anticipated to set the stage for what could become a historic outing for Indian para athletics.
The two-day event is proudly supported by Balmer Lawrie, Association Mutual Funds of India (AMFI), Leonard Cheshire Disability, and Cognizant Foundation.
Point of View
I firmly believe that events like the Indian Open Para Athletics Championship in Bengaluru not only showcase the extraordinary talents of para athletes but also promote inclusivity and inspire future generations. This championship is a significant step towards enhancing India's reputation in the global para athletics arena, and I stand with the nation in supporting these remarkable athletes.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What dates will the Indian Open Para Athletics Championship take place?
The championship is scheduled for July 11 and 12.
Where is the event being held?
The event will be held at the iconic Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.
How many athletes are participating in the championship?
Over 262 para athletes from across the nation are set to participate.
What is the significance of this championship?
It serves as the final selection platform for athletes heading to the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
Who are some notable athletes participating in the event?
Notable athletes include two-time Paralympic gold medallist Sumit Antil, Yogesh Kathuniya, Praveen Kumar, and Simran.
