- Kalinga Stadium hosts the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meet with sprints in the spotlight.
- Indian record-holders Animesh Kujur and Amlan Borgohain lead a strong national contingent.
- Malaysian star Muhammad Azeem Fahemi brings international flair to the 100m battle.
Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Stadium is ready to witness a new chapter in Indian athletics as the focus shifts from javelin and middle-distance events to pure sprint power.
The international competition is equally fierce, with Malaysian sprint sensation Muhammad Azeem Fahemi joining the fray. Azeem, who has clocked a legal 10.09s and a wind-assisted 10.01s this year, will test his pace against Borgohain and India’s in-form sprinters.
Bhubaneswar’s Sprint Festival: Indian Records Meet Global Speed
Indian athletics has long celebrated its champions in field events, but 2025 could mark the dawn of a sprint revolution. The Kalinga Stadium, known for hosting marquee sporting events, will serve as the stage where speed, strategy, and stamina converge. With the inclusion of the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze, the city strengthens its position as a global athletics hub.
Animesh Kujur’s rapid rise has been one of the most talked-about developments in Indian sprinting. Holding national records in both the 100m and 200m, as well as contributing to the 4x100m relay record, he represents a new generation of athletes capable of competing internationally. His presence alone has heightened anticipation among fans and experts alike.
The competition is not just domestic. Muhammad Azeem Fahemi’s entry into the 100m lineup ensures that the race will be fought on razor-thin margins. Having trained in the competitive NCAA circuit in the US, Azeem brings world-class technique and experience that could push all athletes to faster times.
Beyond the track, the meet represents a cultural shift in Indian athletics coverage. By spotlighting sprinting alongside traditional favourites, the event encourages more youth to consider the 100m and 200m as their primary focus. This could lead to a more balanced development of track and field disciplines in the country.
With homegrown talent challenging international speedsters, Bhubaneswar’s sprint spectacle is more than just a race—it’s a statement that Indian athletics is ready to expand its horizons.
“The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.” – Juma Ikangaa
