252 teams take part in CBSE national swimming contest

The CBSE National Swimming Competition (Boys) began on Wednesday under the aegis of the University Campus School of Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU).

“252 teams and 614 participants from nine zones across India and abroad are competing in this five-day event. From the Foreign Zone, 30 teams and 90 players from CBSE schools in Dubai, Qatar and Oman have joined the competition,” said an MDU spokesperson.

The MDU vice-chancellor, Prof Rajbir Singh, presided over the inaugural ceremony. He urged the participants to give their best. He highlighted the university’s commitment to the balanced development of education and sports, noting that such events not only teach competition but also foster teamwork and sportsmanship.

Renowned swimmer and Rio Olympics representative Shivani Kataria was the chief guest at the opening ceremony. Paralympian Himanshu Nandal, the guest of honour, inspired the athletes by emphasising persistent effort despite challenges is the key to success.

Prof Sunita Saini, director of the University Campus School, delivered the welcome address, greeting the athletes and guests. On the first day, Vansh Suhag of Delhi Public School, Vasant Kunj, won the 1500m Freestyle Under-19, followed by Dakshit of Bal Bharti Public School, Pitampura in second place and Srijan Nath of DPS North in third.

In the 200m Individual Medley Under-11, Yoganithi Natesan of St Barito’s Academy, Chennai secured first place, Himaksh Sharma of DPS Gurugram came second and Ishan Pal of Vibhagyor High School finished third.