Indian Open Para Athletics Championship Set to Unfold in Bengaluru on July 11-12
- The championship serves as the last trial for selecting India’s para athletics team for the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
- Over 262 top para athletes, including Paralympic champions like Sumit Antil and Yogesh Kathuniya, will compete at Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium.
- The event celebrates resilience and excellence in Indian para sports, with backing from Balmer Lawrie, AMFI, Leonard Cheshire Disability, and Cognizant Foundation.
The city is all set to host over 262 of India’s top para athletes at the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, taking place on July 11 and 12 at the iconic Kanteerava Stadium. This prestigious two-day event marks a significant milestone for Indian para sports, serving as the final selection ground for athletes aiming to represent India at the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships later this year.
The championship will showcase the country’s finest talents in para athletics, many of whom have already achieved international acclaim. Leading the roster is two-time Paralympic gold medallist Sumit Antil (Javelin Throw, F64), joined by other star performers like Praveen Kumar (High Jump, T44), Yogesh Kathuniya (Discus Throw, F56), Dharambir Nain (Club Throw, F51), Rinku Hooda (Javelin Throw, F46), and Simran (Sprints, T12).
Commenting on the significance 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 World Championships in New Delhi, this event plays a pivotal role in finalising the athletes who will carry India’s hopes on the global stage”.
Athletes too are enthusiastic and motivated. Yogesh Kathuniya, silver medallist at the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics, expressed, “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”.
Adding to the momentum, sprinter Simran, gold medallist at the Kobe 2024 Asian Championships, stated, “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”.
The event is supported by Balmer Lawrie, Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), Leonard Cheshire Disability, and the Cognizant Foundation, showcasing strong backing for para sports in India.
As India eyes a historic medal haul at the upcoming World Championships, all eyes will be on Bengaluru, where the journey begins.
