State-level senior athletics championship kicks off in Karnal

A three-day state-level senior athletics championship for men and women began with great enthusiasm at Karna Stadium, bringing together a vibrant mix of talent and passion for sports. Around 1,660 athletes from across Haryana have registered to compete in various events.

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The event was started by District Sports Officer (DSO), Sudha Bhasin, who was accompanied by prominent local athletes, including Ravi, Raman, Tammana and Mansi during the opening ceremony.

During the three days, the athletes are competing in different events, including 100m, 200m, 400m, 5000m, and 10,000m races, along with all throw events –discus, javelin, shot put, hammer throw and all jump events –long jump, high jump, triple jump, pole vault.

Addressing the players, Sudha spoke about the opportunity it offered for athletes to showcase their talent. She also emphasised the importance of focusing on performance rather than medals. “Play with passion and a positive spirit. Do not let a loss discourage you, instead, focus on improving your performance for future games,” she said.

Sudha, who is herself an accomplished athlete, said the arrangements for the visiting participants were done. “Government school buildings have been designated for athletes’ accommodation, ensuring comfort and convenience. I am personally reviewing all arrangements daily to ensure no issues are faced by the players,” she added.

The first day of the championship saw some remarkable performances. In the long jump men category, Avinsh from Rewari secured the gold medal, while Mange Ram from Sirsa clinched silver, Harinarayan from Panipat bagged the bronze medal, said the DSO.

In the women's long jump category, Muskan from Faridabad won the gold medal, while Kusum from Jind won silver medal and Gagandeep Kaur from Yamunanagar claimed bronze.

In the 1500-m men race, Surjeet from Rewari secured the gold medal, while Akash from Hisar earned silver and Dhoni from Charkhi Dadri took home bronze. In the women's 1500-m race, Muskan from Sonepat bagged the gold medal, Anita from Hisar won silver and Vijeta from Karnal claimed bronze.

In the shot put men category, Anshdeep from Faridabad won the gold medal, Ganga Singh from Sirsa secured silver and Vikas from Charkhi Dadri earned bronze.

In the women's 400 m relay category, Faridabad clinched the gold medal, while Panchkula secured silver and Karnal won bronze, she added.