Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 23: A spirited Indian contingent has set off for the prestigious Suzuki Aerobic Gymnastics World Cup 2025, to be held in Tokyo, Japan, from April 25 to 27. The competition, a key event on the global gymnastics calendar, is organized under the aegis of the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) and the International Aerobics Federation, Japan.
The Indian team comprises a vibrant mix of junior and senior athletes from across the country: Arya Shah (Maharashtra), Rudraksha Khanna (Jammu & Kashmir), Mutum Romins (Manipur), Meet Kosambia (Gujarat), and Ariha Pangambam (Manipur) have earned their berths following a rigorous selection process. Rhea Sharma (Jammu & Kashmir) will also represent India in the Junior Women’s Individual category.
Representing the nation in multiple age categories, these athletes are expected to put forth a strong performance against world-class competitors from 19 countries and regions.
The team is under the mentorship of coaches Shashank Bidiwal (Gujarat) and SP Singh (Jammu & Kashmir), while Dr. Makarand Joshi and Yamanam Ranjan accompany the squad as head of the delegation and judges. Notably, Dr. Joshi, who recently excelled at the International Judges Examination in the Philippines, has earned the Category III Olympic cycle rank for the seventh time and will judge at the World Cup for the third consecutive year.
This marks the third consecutive year that Maruti Suzuki India Pvt. Ltd., Delhi is sponsoring the Indian aerobic gymnastics team for the world event.
Ahead of their departure, the team received warm wishes and encouragement from several dignitaries, including Gymnastics Federation of India President Sudhir Mittal, Treasurer Kaushik Bidiwala, Maruti Suzuki representatives Sito San, Naoto Takahashi San, and Takeshita San, as well as officials from the Sports Authority of India and Maharashtra’s Youth Services Department.
This year’s competition is expected to be fiercely contested, with reigning world champions Riri Kitazume and Mizuki Saito of Japan poised to headline the event on their home turf. Their performances are among the most anticipated highlights of the tournament.
The Indian squad, buoyed by support and rigorous preparation, is hopeful of making a mark on the global stage and bringing home accolades in this elite showcase of aerobic excellence.