How did the 78th Senior National Aquatic Championship kick off with record-breaking performances?
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Synopsis
The 78th Senior National Aquatic Championship has begun in Bhubaneswar, showcasing thrilling performances by top athletes. The event witnessed a remarkable record by Tamil Nadu's B. Benediction Rohit, while Odisha's Shristi Upadhyaya made history by winning the state's first individual gold medal. Dive into the excitement of this prestigious championship!
Key Takeaways
- Record-breaking performances by athletes highlight the championship's excitement.
- Over 400 participants demonstrate the depth of talent in Indian aquatics.
- Historic achievements by local athletes foster community pride.
- The event is a key platform for athletes aiming for international competitions.
- Strong support from officials underscores the importance of sports development in India.
Bhubaneswar, June 22 (NationPress) The 78th Senior National Aquatic Championship commenced with great enthusiasm on Sunday morning at the Indoor Aquatic Centre, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
This esteemed national event is organized by the Swimming Federation of India (SFI). More than 400 athletes and 100 technical officials from various parts of the country have come together to participate in this championship.
The opening ceremony, which took place at 4:30 PM IST, was led by R.N. Jayprakash, the President of the Swimming Federation of India. The Minister of Sports, Suryabanshi Suraj, attended the event as the Chief Guest and officially inaugurated the championship, amidst the lively rhythms of Odisha’s traditional Dulduli Baja.
Notable attendees included Ashok Kumar Panda, Additional Secretary, DSYS Odisha; Virendra Nanavati, Vice President of the Asian Aquatic Federation; Monal Chokshi, Secretary General, SFI; Vyas, Vice President, SFI; and Golapmani Mahanta, General Secretary, Odisha State Swimming Association.
The evening session showcased thrilling performances across eight final events. A highlight was B. Benediction Rohit from Tamil Nadu, who shattered a national meet record in the men’s 100m butterfly, achieving a time of 52.57 seconds. This exceptional swim also secured him the B qualification standard for the upcoming World Championships in Singapore, set to take place from July 27 to August 3.
In the women’s 100m butterfly, Shristi Upadhyaya from Odisha made history by clinching the state’s inaugural individual gold medal at the championship. She shared the top podium position with Astha Chowdhary from Assam, both finishing with a time of 1:03.50 minutes, much to the excitement of the local audience.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the significance of events like the 78th Senior National Aquatic Championship. Such championships not only foster national pride but also elevate the standards of aquatic sports in India. This event is a testament to the dedication and skill of our athletes, and we stand firmly in support of their journey towards excellence.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the 78th Senior National Aquatic Championship held?
The championship is being held at the Indoor Aquatic Centre, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
How many athletes are participating in the championship?
Over 400 athletes are participating from across the country.
Who inaugurated the championship?
The championship was inaugurated by the Minister of Sports, Suryabanshi Suraj.
What was the standout performance of the championship?
B. Benediction Rohit set a new national meet record in the men's 100m butterfly.
Did any athlete from Odisha win a medal?
Yes, Shristi Upadhyaya won Odisha's first individual gold medal in the women's 100m butterfly.
