Bhubaneswar (IANS): The 78th Senior National Aquatic Championship commenced with great fanfare at the Indoor Aquatic Centre, Kalinga Stadium on Sunday, bringing together the best of India’s swimming talent under one roof. Organized by the Swimming Federation of India (SFI), the prestigious event features participation from over 400 athletes and 100 technical officials representing various states and institutions.
Grand Opening Ceremony
The championship was officially inaugurated at 4:30 PM IST in the presence of R.N. Jayprakash, President of SFI, and Odisha’s Minister of Sports, Suryabanshi Suraj, who declared the championship open. The ceremony was further enlivened by a performance of Odisha’s traditional Dulduli Baja, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the host state.
Other notable dignitaries present at the event included:
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Ashok Kumar Panda, Additional Secretary, DSYS Odisha
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Virendra Nanavati, Vice President, Asian Aquatic Federation
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Monal Chokshi, Secretary General, SFI
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Mr. Vyas, Vice President, SFI
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Golapmani Mahanta, General Secretary, Odisha State Swimming Association
Day One Highlights
The championship’s opening day was packed with thrilling performances in eight final events, delivering excitement to fans and setting a competitive tone for the days to follow.
National Record in Men’s 100m Butterfly
B. Benediction Rohit from Tamil Nadu stole the spotlight by setting a new national meet record and the best Indian time in the men’s 100m butterfly, finishing in 52.57 seconds. His achievement not only earned him gold but also qualified him under the B standard for the upcoming World Aquatic Championships in Singapore (July 27–August 3).
Historic Win for Odisha in Women’s 100m Butterfly
The home crowd had reason to cheer as Odisha’s Shristi Upadhyaya made history by clinching the state’s first-ever individual gold medal at the national level. She tied for first place with Assam’s Astha Chowdhary, both clocking 1:03.50 minutes in the women’s 100m butterfly final.
Their joint win was met with a standing ovation from the audience, celebrating not just talent, but also the spirit of Indian aquatic sports.
Looking Ahead
As the championship continues over the next few days, spectators can expect more national-level records, rising stars, and thrilling finishes. With Odisha making a strong debut and Tamil Nadu asserting dominance, the championship promises to be a defining event for Indian swimming in 2024.
