Patna recently made history by hosting its first major national sports event on July 19, 2025. The 6th ‘Indian Open Athletics Meet’ at Patliputra Sports Complex attracted around 390 athletes from across the country.
This year, three talented athletes from Bihar qualified for international competitions. Piyush Raj and Setu Mishra excelled in the 400 meters, while Sunny Kumar shone in the long jump. These athletes have earned spots in the national camp, with hopes of competing in the Commonwealth and Asian Games if they continue to perform well.
Ravindra Shankar, the director of the Bihar State Sports Authority, expressed pride in the event’s success. “We had senior athletes and even a few Olympians here. Players from Bihar showcased their skills alongside them,” he said.
The competition featured several track events, including races from 100 meters to 10,000 meters, along with various field events like long jump and javelin throw. Notably, the event began at 6 AM, allowing for a full day of thrilling athletics.
In recent years, events like this have seen growth. For instance, the initial five editions of the ‘Indian Open Athletics Meet’ only had 14 athletes participating, highlighting how much interest and competition have increased.
Moreover, free entry for spectators was provided to encourage more people to support the athletes, which is becoming a popular trend in sports events nationwide. This approach not only boosts attendance but also fosters community spirit and encourages youth participation in sports.
In a broader context, sports events across India are gaining momentum. According to a recent survey by the Sports Authority of India, nearly 65% of young people now engage in some form of athletic activity, reflecting a shift in culture toward fitness and competition.
This year’s Indian Open Athletics Meet shows that Bihar is becoming a nurturing ground for budding athletic talent, and we can expect more from these promising young athletes in the future.
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