Bhubaneswar: Odisha is all set to host the World Athletics Continental Tour (Bronze Level) for the first time at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on August 10.  

Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj shared details of this prestigious international athletics competition at a press conference here today.

The event will witness the participation of over 150 athletes representing more than 10 countries, including India, Turkmenistan, Bhutan, Philippines, South Korea, Malaysia, Iraq, Vietnam, Republic of Cameroon, Sri Lanka, Iran and the Maldives.

A total of 20 events will be held during the tournament.

“This is a proud moment for Odisha. Hosting the World Athletics Continental Tour for the first time in our state reflects our commitment to sporting excellence. We are taking all necessary steps to ensure the event’s smooth and successful conduct—from world-class infrastructure to hospitality,” said the Sports Minister.

Odisha has already created a distinct identity in hosting international sporting events, he added.

“Our athletes have brought laurels to the state by excelling in various global competitions. I am confident they will deliver outstanding performances in this tournament as well,” stated the minister.

Sandeep Mehta, Secretary General of the Athletics Federation of India, said, “We are proud to host the World Athletics Continental Tour (Bronze Level) in India. With world-class athletes competing, this promises to be a spectacular event and Odisha provides the perfect setting for its successful conduct.”

Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, Principal Secretary, Sports and Youth Services Department; Deepankar Mahapatra, Director, Sports and Youth Services Department and B.E. Stanley Jones, Treasurer, Athletics Federation of India, were present in the press conference.