Daijiworld Media Network-Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Feb 22: The national sports event 'Athletics Federation Cup-2015' will be held in Dakshina Kannada for the first time from May 1 to May 4 at Mangala Stadium here, said Karnataka state Athletics Federation president Dr Parameshwar, who is also the president of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC).
Briefing about the first preparatory meeting held at a private hotel here on Sunday February 22, Adil J Sumariwalla, president of Athletics Federation of India said, "Athletes will be competing in this event to qualify for the Asian Athletic Championship which will be held on June 3, 2015 in Hunan and world championship to be held in Beijing."
"Today we discussed with representatives and the administration about providing the best facilities to athletes involving various departments like tourism, transportation and various other departments. There was a positive response in the meeting and the administration and representatives have given all assurance of hosting the event successfully in the city," he further said.
"In 15 days, teams will be visiting the city for general and technical inspection. Athletes for various competitions will be given the top most priority. All the facilities like accommodation, transportation and technical conducts will be of top class. Visiting inspection teams will discuss with various departments about all the facilities. The events will be held in the late evenings under floodlights when the weather is cooler."
There will be 47 athletic events with approximately 700 athletes taking part in the event from different states. Boards like Railways, ONGC and LIC will also take part.
State minister for sports Abhaychandra Jain said, "The department for sports along with the state government is prepared for this event. The ministry has ordered to start the work to make ready suitable grounds and tracks for the event. Floodlights will be installed. The stadium will be improved. Warm-up areas will be provided to all the athletes. We have got good opportunity and we should utilize this."
Dr Parameshwar said that within ten days the budget will be finalized and given to the sports minister.