22nd Asian Athletics Championships kicks off with gala opening ceremony

The 22nd Asian Athletics Championships was inaugurated at Kalinga Stadium in Odisha capital Bhubaneswar this evening. The venue looked at its glittering and majestic best to welcome the athletes, visitors and dignitaries. Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the event as balloons and fireworks lit up the skyline declaring the games open. Mascot of the meet, Olly led the march-past of the athletes into the stadium. 

Athlete Tintu Luka was the flag bearer for the Indian contingent which received a rousing welcome from the crowd. Odia athlete Srabani Nanda had the honour of taking the oath on



behalf of athletes at the inaugural ceremony. Over 1,200 athletes and officials from 43 countries in Asia witnessed the largest sporting event. 

Tomorrow onward till 9th of this month around 42 track and field events will be held in the championship. The administration has formed "Team Bhubaneswar", consisting of government officials, to ensure smooth conduct of the 22nd Asian Athletics Championships. Notably, this event is hosted by India for the third time. While, Delhi had hosted the event in 1989, Pune had the opportunity to organise the tournament in 2013.