Anticipation Builds for Bhubaneswar's Maiden World Athletics Continental Tour

Bhubaneswar is set to host its first World Athletics Continental Tour bronze level competition on August 10, with the men's javelin event drawing significant attention. Indian athletes Sachin Yadav and Yashvir Singh will lead the national challenge, competing against Sri Lanka's Sumeda Ranasinghe and Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage for top positions.

The absence of two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra leaves the field open, with a one-day prize pool of USD 25,000 up for grabs. The event will feature 160 athletes from 17 countries, including strong contingents from Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, highlighting the international appeal of the tour.

Organized by the Odisha government in collaboration with the Athletics Federation of India, the competition aims to demonstrate India's capability in hosting international athletic events. Officials hope a successful event will pave the way for silver or gold level competitions in the future.

(With inputs from agencies.)