Bhubaneswar, Odisha: The Kalinga Stadium is set to witness a stellar display of athletic talent as India’s top athletes converge for the National Federation Senior Athletics Competition 2024, popularly known as the Federation Cup.
The event kicks off on May 12th and carries immense significance this year, serving as a crucial platform for athletes to secure qualification for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
All eyes will be on Neeraj Chopra, India’s javelin throw prodigy. After a strong second-place finish at the Doha Diamond League, Chopra makes his much-awaited return to the domestic circuit.
Fans eagerly await his performance as he clashes with Asian Games silver medalist Kishore Jena in the javelin throw event on May 15th.
But the Federation Cup isn’t a one-man show.
A constellation of stars will be battling it out for national glory and a coveted ticket to Paris 2024. National record holder Jeswin Aldrin in the long jump will be aiming for a soaring leap that meets the Olympic qualification mark.
Two-time Asian Games champion TajinderPal Singh Toor will be aiming for a double win in the shot put, needing just one more centimeter to secure his Olympic berth.
The roar of the crowd will rise for the Indian relay teams, fresh off their historic qualification runs at the World Athletics Relays.
Amoj Jacob and Muhammad Ajmal, key members of the men’s 4x400m team, will be testing their individual mettle in the 400m race. Similarly, the women’s 4x400m quartet of Jyothika Sri Dandi, MR Poovamma, and Subha Venkatesan will be looking to outpace each other, with Asian Games medalist Vithya Ramraj adding another layer of competition.
The men’s triple jump promises a clash of titans between reigning Asian champion Abdulla Aboobacker and national record holder Praveen Chithravel. Aboobacker, also the defending Federation Cup champion, will be aiming to retain his crown with a series of explosive jumps.
For Shaili Singh in the women’s long jump, the challenge is monumental. Surpassing her legendary mentor Anju Bobby George’s national record is the only path to the Olympics. With a personal best hovering just below the mark, Shaili will be aiming for a record-breaking leap that etches her name in athletics history. With Nayana James back in competition she will have a fierce competition.
The Federation Cup 2024 is more than just a competition; it’s a battleground where dreams are chased and Olympic berths are secured. With every throw, every jump, and every stride, these athletes will push their limits, captivating audiences and igniting national pride.
While the official live broadcast is yet to be announced, stay tuned for updates to witness this electrifying spectacle unfold in Bhubaneswar.
Where to catch the action
Don’t miss the action! The National Federation Senior Athletics Competition 2024 will be streamed live on the official YouTube channel of the Athletics Federation of India. You can check the full schedule here
This is your chance to witness India’s top athletes battle it out for national glory and a chance to compete at the Paris Olympics.
Written By Ishant
