Jharsuguda: In a significant development for local sports, eight gymnasts—six boys and two girls—from the Rourkela circle are traveling to Pune to participate in the CBSE National Gymnastics Championship for the first time. This achievement comes just three years after the sport was introduced to the area. The local indoor stadium is currently vibrant with activity as around 80 young athletes engage in daily training sessions.
Guided by experienced coaches Narendra Mahawar, Sayan Das, Biswajit Behera, and Lekha Rani, these budding gymnasts are being prepared to excel at both state and national competitions. The championship is set to take place from October 26 to 31 in Pune, where the eight competitors from Rourkela circle will showcase their skills.
In the boys’ under-11 category, Prabhanjan Mahala and Advin Nag will represent their peers. The girls’ under-11 division will see Priya Badaik, Rimjhim Sil, Pankhudi Sil, Adyasa Patra, and Vidyanka Behera competing, while Adrija Kothari will take part in the girls’ under-14 category.
Families of these eight talented athletes are filled with anticipation as they prepare for their national debut. Ashok Mishra, head coach of the Odisha HPC, expressed his best wishes to all participants from the state, emphasizing the hard work that has led to this momentous occasion in the CBSE event.
