Indian Stars Annu Rani and Animesh Kujur Aim for Tokyo Glory at Bhubaneswar’s Continental Tour Bronze

(OT Webdesk)Bhubaneswar is set to witness a thrilling day of athletics as the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze unfolds at Kalinga Stadium on August 10, 2025.

With a $25,000 prize pool and Tokyo World Championships qualification on the line, India’s top athletes are ready to shine.

Leading the charge is javelin thrower Annu Rani, fresh off a 62.59m throw in Poland. Ranked 30th globally, the Asian Games champion is eyeing the 64m automatic qualification mark. “My recent performance has boosted my confidence for Tokyo,” said Rani, who is among the top 36 eligible via world rankings.

Sprinter Animesh Kujur, holding a national record of 20.32s in the 200m, is targeting the 20.16s benchmark to secure his spot in Tokyo.

“My focus is solely on the 200m,” said Kujur, currently ranked 42nd worldwide.

Other Indian contenders include Sachin Yadav (javelin), Murali Sreeshankar (long jump), and Shaili Singh, all vying for global ranking points.

Athletes from over 15 countries, including Malaysia and Sri Lanka, will compete in morning heats and evening finals.

Odisha Sports Secretary Sachin Jadhav expressed pride in hosting the inaugural event, while AFI President Bahadur Singh Sagoo emphasized its importance for Tokyo qualification.

With home support and high stakes, Bhubaneswar is set for a spectacular showcase of athletic excellence.