Records can be broken and medals can change hands, but character, determination and discipline remain eternal. These powerful words from Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati set the tone on Friday evening as the state prepares to host the prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour Silver Meet.
Speaking at the welcome dinner for athletes, coaches, officials and guests from across the globe, the Governor extended a warm welcome to participants from 27 countries. More than 200 athletes will compete at the iconic Kalinga Stadium, which he described as ready to witness a high-quality celebration of sport.
“This is not merely a competition,” the Governor said. “It is a festival of human potential and a powerful reminder of sport’s ability to unite people beyond borders.”
He urged athletes to compete with firm resolve yet fair play, to respect their opponents, and to savour every moment on the track and field. Behind every sprint, jump and throw, he noted, lie years of disciplined training, sacrifice, triumphs and setbacks.
Calling every athlete “a messenger of hope,” Dr Kambhampati highlighted how their performances can inspire children watching from villages, schools and cities across the world.
Drawing a beautiful parallel with Odisha’s cultural heritage, the Governor linked the spirit of sport to the inclusive tradition of Lord Jagannath — a tradition of humility, service and unity that transcends language, nationality and culture. In the same way, he said, sport brings humanity together.
He proudly recalled Odisha’s emergence as a world-class sporting destination, citing the successful hosting of the Hockey World Cup, FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, Asian Athletics Championships and the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze Meet. Looking ahead, he announced that Odisha will host the World Athletics and Asian Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028.
The Governor also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Sporting India’ and appreciated the collaborative efforts of the Odisha government, the Sports and Youth Services Department, World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India.
Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj also addressed the gathering. Among the distinguished guests present were Athletics Federation of India Senior Vice-President Anju Bobby George, AFI Planning Committee Chairman and AAAF President Dr Lalit Kumar Bhanot, Commissioner-cum-Secretary Bhupendra Singh Punia, and Director Dr Yedula Vijay.
As the world’s best prepare to light up Kalinga Stadium, the Governor’s message resonated clearly: medals will come and go, but the values that sport teaches will last a lifetime.
