Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the newly- renovated Kalinga Stadium here Saturday. The stadium will be the venue for the 22nd Asian Athletics Championships, July 5-9.
Naveen also unveiled the uniquely-designed medal for the championships as well as the plaques next to each renovated area of the picturesque stadium. He also announced an award of Rs 3,000,00 each to the five Orissa athletes – Dutee Chand, Srabani Nanda, jauna Murmu, Purnima Hembram and Amiya Mallick – all of whom have been selected to the Indian team. Dutee, Srabani Jauna and Amiya were handed the cheques during the colorful extravaganza. However Purnima was absent.
Olympian and national record holder in the 100m women’s hurdles Anuradha Biswal, Asian Games silver medallist Pranati Mishra, Sushma Behera, former Indian women’s football captain Sradhanjali Samantray, Banita Lakra, who was selected for the World Police meet and a trio of athletes from the sports Hostel of Bhubaneswar Latika Besra, Raibari Tiria and Sanjukta Mallick ran the inaugural race on the newly laid track, cheered on by the Chief Minister, who cut the ribbon to declare the track open. Banita won the race, while Raibari Tiria emerged runner-up. Sanjukta Mallick finished third.
Speaking on the occasion Naveen said, “We had the challenge of getting ready within record 90 days. We took the challenge and showed to the world that we have done it. We have the highest number of participating countries (45) and a record number of athletes taking part in the meet and we should feel proud for organising such a mega event.”
He added: “Orissa has come a long way. After setting global benchmarks in disaster management, playing a major role in the food security of the country, we with the Asian Athletics Championships will show the world that we are ready to host any global sporting event.”
The Chief Minister also wished good luck to all the five Oriya athletes for a great performance in the competition. “I wish all the Oriya athletes the best for the championships. I hope all of them will win medals and make all of us proud,” said Naveen.
Sports minister Chandra Sarathi Behera said, “We all have confidence on our state athletes and I hope that they will win medals on their home turf.”
Speaking on the sidelines of the programme Dutee exuded confidence about winning medal. “I am ready and in top form. I am pretty excited to run before the home crowd.”
Among others Bhubaneswar MP Prasanna Patasani, Bhubaneswar North MLA Priyadarshi Mishra, AFI president Adille Sumariwalla and Orissa state sports secretary Vishal Dev were present.
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