7 para athletes to represent Odisha in Indian Open Para Athletics Championship 2025

A strong contingent of seven para athletes will represent Odisha  in the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship. The event will be held at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on  Jul 11-12, 2025

This prestigious international event, organized by the Paralympic Committee of India approved by World Para Athletics will act as the final selection trial for the upcoming World Para Athletics Championships, New Delhi 2025.

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. With representation across track and field disciplines, this championship promises elite performances and fierce competition.

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"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," said Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).

Odisha Para Athletics Team:

Jayanti Behera (100m, 200m, 400m), Suchitra Parida (Events: Javelin, Shot Put), Swadhin Mahar (Long Jump), Kamalakanta Nayak (400m, 800m, Javelin), Janaki Oram (100m, 200m, Long Jump), Ranjit Chanda (Javelin),    Pankaj Bhue (100m, Long Jump).