National Inter-State: Final tickets to Tokyo World Championships

CHENNAI: The National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships is the final competition for Indian athletes to earn a ticket for the Tokyo World Championships. While five athletes have already surpassed the qualifying mark in their respective disciplines, several are in contention to qualify via the world-ranking route.

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Focus on javelin Since Neeraj has received a wildcard entry to the Worlds as the reigning champion, India can field three more javelin throwers. The inter-state meet presents an opportunity for Sachin Yadav, Yashvir Singh and Rohit Yadav. Sachin is sitting comfortably at the 22nd position in the ‘Road to Tokyo’ standings, Yashvir is 30th. Another chance for Animesh Youngster Animesh Kujur, the owner of national records in both 100m and 200m, is likely to qualify for the Worlds as he is ranked 42nd (200m) in the ‘Road to Tokyo’. Sreeshankar Murali (men’s long jump) can qualify directly by entry standard. After an injury break, Sreeshankar has breached the 8m mark several times and it remains to be seen if he can qualify directly via the qualification standard (8.27m). Other athletes in contention include Sarvesh Kushare (men’s high jump) and Ankita Dhyani (women’s steeplechase).