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Key Points

Bengaluru gears up for the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, a crucial qualifier for the 2025 World Championships. Top athletes like Sumit Antil and Yogesh Kathuniya will compete for national selection. PCI President Devendra Jhajharia calls it a celebration of resilience and excellence. The event, backed by major sponsors, aims to set the stage for India’s historic run in para sports.

Key Points: Bengaluru Hosts Indian Open Para Athletics Championship July 11-12

  • Bengaluru hosts 262 para athletes for World Championships selection
  • Sumit Antil and Yogesh Kathuniya lead elite Indian contingent
  • Event serves as final qualifier for New Delhi 2025 Worlds
  • Rising stars like Simran aim to impress home crowd
3 min read

Bengaluru to host Indian Open Para Athletics Championship on July 11-12

Over 262 para athletes, including Sumit Antil and Yogesh Kathuniya, compete in Bengaluru for a spot in the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.

"The 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship is more than just a competition—it is a celebration of resilience, excellence, and national pride. - Devendra Jhajharia, PCI President"

New Delhi, July 10

Bengaluru is set to welcome over 262 of the nation’s most determined and dynamic para athletes for the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, scheduled to take place on July 11 and 12 at the iconic Kanteerava Stadium.

The event marks a crucial moment in Indian para sports, serving as the final selection platform for the Indian contingent heading to the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, set to be held later this year.

The championship will witness participation from an extraordinary lineup of Indian para athletes who have made their mark on the international stage. Leading the charge is two-time Paralympic gold medallist Sumit Antil in the F64 Javelin category, along with celebrated 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) among others.

Speaking ahead of the event, Devendra Jhajharia, president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), said, "The 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship is more than just a competition—it is a celebration of resilience, excellence, and national pride. As we prepare for the New Delhi 2025 World Championships, this event plays a pivotal role in finalising the athletes who will carry India’s hopes on the global stage. I wish every athlete the very best and look forward to witnessing their incredible talent on display."

Athletes too are fired up for this crucial meet. Yogesh Kathuniya, silver medallist at the Paris and Tokyo Paralympics and one of India’s most consistent throwers, shared his excitement, "This meet is special. It's our chance to show we are ready for the world stage. Competing here not only motivates me but also reminds me of the growing strength of para athletics in India."

Rising sprint star Simran, who won gold at the Kobe 2024 Asian Championships, added, "I’m feeling strong and focused. Racing in front of a home crowd in Bengaluru gives me extra energy. This meet is key for all of us looking to make it to the World Championships in New Delhi."

With India targeting a record haul at the upcoming New Delhi World Championships, this championship in Bangalore is expected to set the tone for what could be a historic outing for Indian para athletics.

The two-day event is supported by Balmer Lawrie, Association Mutual Funds of India (AMFI), Leonard Cheshire Disability and Cognizant Foiundation.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Why isn't this getting more media coverage? These athletes deserve at least as much attention as cricket players. Sumit Antil is a double gold medalist for God's sake!
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Aditya G
Great initiative but I hope the stadium facilities are properly accessible. Last time I went to Kanteerava, the wheelchair ramps were in bad condition. Infrastructure matters as much as the event.
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Sarah B
As an expat living in Bengaluru, I'm amazed by India's para athletes! Their achievements are incredible. Will be taking my kids to watch - what better way to teach them about perseverance and courage?
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Karthik V
Yogesh Kathuniya is a legend! His discus throws are poetry in motion. Hope DD Sports shows this live - we need to support our champions properly. Jai Hind!
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Nisha Z
While this is wonderful news, I wish corporate sponsors would support para sports throughout the year, not just during events. These athletes need consistent training support and equipment.
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Michael C
India's progress in para sports is remarkable. The government's Target Olympic Podium Scheme seems to be working well. Looking forward to seeing new records being set!

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