CUTTACK 28-Dec-2017
The 65th Odisha State Athletics Championship started on a modest note, producing one new state record and two new meet records at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack today. Organised by Odisha Athletic Association, the three-day championship was declared open by Sports Minister Chandra Sarathi Behera. He, however, created hue and cry for arriving at the venue two and half hours late.
Over 1500 athletes from 34 units started the chase for medals in 159 events. Throwing events were conducted at Reserve Police Ground and Satyabrata Stadium. Barring Olympic sprinter Dutee Chand and junior international Punga Soren, prominent athletes of the state stayed away from the championship. As expected, Dutee emerged the fastest woman, winning the 100m gold with a time of 11.6 seconds.
