Date:31/10/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/10/31/stories/2005103108891800.htm

Sport - Athletics

National athletics meet next month

Special Correspondent

Hyderabad: The 45th National Open athletics championships will be held at the G.M.C. Balayogi stadium in Gachibowli here from November 7 to 10.

The details were announced at a press conference addressed by Mr. L. Rajagopal, chairman A.P. Amateur Athletic Association, on Sunday.

The meet assumes significance since the Indian athletes for the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in March 2006 will be selected here. Nine states and six departmental teams have confirmed their participation in this meet.

All athletes who are undergoing training at various national camps which are now in progress at Patiala, Bangalore and Delhi will reach Hyderabad on November 5.

Leading athletes such as Anju Bobby George (long jump), Sunitha Rani (middle and long distance), Madhuri Gurnule (long distance), Anil Kumar (100m), Fazal Ansari (javelin), Jaiveer Singh and Navpreet Singh (shot put), Arun D'Souza (steeplechase), and P. Shankar (400m hurdles) among several others are expected to take part.

IAAF certified equipment including an electronic scoreboard, giant screen and photo finish will used.

The SAAP has extended financial support for the meet and the State government has also been approached for assistance.

Milkha Singh and P.T. Usha have been invited to attend.