All in readiness: Athletics Federation of India officials and senior athletes after the press conference on the eve of the 65th National inter-State senior athletics championship.
| Photo Credit: BISWARANJAN ROUT
A sparkling new track, despite shipping issues in the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war, at the Kalinga Stadium here may offer surprises for the country’s elite athletes when they seek to qualify for the Asian Games at the only selection opportunity, the National inter-State athletics meet, starting here on Wednesday.
Laying of the track, costing about ₹22 crore, finished on Monday. “I’ll have an idea about the track when I compete tomorrow [Wednesday] morning,” said 5000m National record holder Gulveer Singh.
World championships finalist high jumper Sarvesh Kushare, who equalled his personal best 2.28m at the Federation meet in Ranchi, added: “I have competed in these conditions before. I will give my best here.”
Sprinter Animesh Kujur, who landed here on Tuesday after being part of India’s gold-winning 4x100m men’s team in the Asian Relays in China, had a clear target. “I hope to get back my (100m National) record,” said Kujur, who would compete in 100m and 200m.
Joint National record holder pole vaulters Dev Meena and Kuldeep Kumar wanted to repeat their Ranchi mark (5.45m) and qualify for the Asiad.
National record holders, quartermiler Vishal T.K., woman high jumper Pooja, are among the leading athletes who will be seen in action.
Following her injury lay-off, hurdler Jyothi Yarraji is making a comeback after a year.
Some top names, including former World and Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, 100m National record holder Gurindervir Singh, National record holder decathlete Tejaswin Shankar, have got exemption from the meet.
Published – June 23, 2026 08:46 pm IST