Bengaluru Gears Up for 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, Final Gateway to 2025 Worlds
File image of Sumit Antil via NDTV
Bengaluru, July 10 — Over 262 of India's most promising and elite para athletes are set to compete in the 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship, scheduled for July 11 and 12 at the Kanteerava Stadium. This prestigious event will not only showcase athletic excellence but will also act as the final selection trial for the Indian contingent heading to the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
Organised under the banner of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), the two-day meet marks a pivotal moment in Indian para sports, bringing together both established champions and rising stars from across the country.
Spotlight on Champions: Sumit Antil, Yogesh Kathuniya Among Top Contenders
The championship boasts a formidable lineup of Indian para athletes, many of whom have already made their mark on the global stage.
Sumit Antil, a two-time Paralympic gold medallist and world record holder in the F64 Javelin, will headline the event, along with other celebrated names such as:
- Praveen Kumar (High Jump, T44)
- Yogesh Kathuniya (Discus Throw, F56)
- Dharambir Nain (Club Throw, F51)
- Rinku Hooda (Javelin Throw, F46)
- Simran (100m & 200m, T12)
These athletes are not just competing for medals—they're competing for a place in India’s official squad for the World Para Athletics Championships, scheduled later this year in New Delhi.
PCI President: "A Celebration of Resilience and National Pride"
Speaking ahead of the competition, Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India and a decorated Paralympian himself, emphasized the significance of the championship.
“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 New Delhi 2025 World Championships, this event plays a pivotal role in finalising the athletes who will carry India’s hopes on the global stage.”
Jhajharia’s statement underlines the dual role of the event — both as a high-stakes qualifying meet and a symbol of India’s growing para sports movement.
Athlete Voices: Determination, Hope, and Home Advantage
Athletes participating in the meet are fully aware of what’s at stake.
Yogesh Kathuniya, one of India’s most consistent throwers and a silver medallist at both the Paris and Tokyo Paralympics, shared his anticipation:
“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.”
Simran, a rising sprint sensation who clinched gold at the Kobe 2024 Asian Para Championships, spoke about her readiness and excitement:
“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 in New Delhi.”
A Launchpad for Historic Performances in New Delhi
India has set ambitious targets for the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, and this championship in Bengaluru is being seen as the starting block for that journey. With athletes in prime form and selection pressure high, the meet is expected to deliver top-tier performances.
The 2025 Championships in New Delhi are expected to be India’s biggest para sporting event to date, with the country aiming for a record medal haul and increased global visibility.
Corporate and NGO Support Adds Momentum
The 7th Indian Open Para Athletics Championship is being supported by a mix of corporate sponsors and development partners, including:
- Balmer Lawrie
- Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI)
- Leonard Cheshire Disability
- Cognizant Foundation
Their involvement underscores the growing institutional and private sector support for para athletics in India.
“Support from organizations like these helps in building inclusive sports ecosystems and empowering athletes with the resources they need,” said a PCI spokesperson.
What’s at Stake: Final Selection for India’s Para Athletics Team
This Bengaluru meet is not just a routine competition; it’s the final evaluation ground for athletes vying for national selection. Performances here will directly influence India’s final squad for the World Championships, adding immense pressure and importance to each event.
Scouts, officials, and selection committees will closely monitor the athletes’ timings, throws, jumps, and recovery metrics, ensuring that only the most prepared individuals represent the country on home soil later this year.
Reader Takeaway
As India moves towards hosting its most significant para athletics event in 2025, the 7th Indian Open in Bengaluru serves as a critical milestone in that journey. With elite athletes, heightened competition, and national pride on the line, the event is a true celebration of perseverance, potential, and sporting excellence.