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Indian swimmer Srihari Natraj. (PTI Photo)
The 77th Senior National Aquatic Championships 2024 to will see 500 participants from 31 states will vie for top honours.
Olympian Srihari Nataraj, freestyle specialist Aneesh Gowda and the promising Harshita Jayaram will be some of the frontline swimmers in action during the 77th Senior National Aquatic Championships, beginning here Tuesday.
The tournament, concluding on September 15, is crucial for Indian swimmers as the ‘A’ Qualification mark for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is up for grabs.
Karnataka are the defending champions in the event which will see participation of over 500 swimmers from 31 states.
Nataraj, who competed in the 100m backstroke in the recent Paris Olympics, said he was looking to give his best in the meet.
Two-time Olympian and national record holder in 50, 100 & 200m Backstroke, Srihari Nataraj, expressed his eagerness saying, “It is very exciting that the 77th Senior National Aquatic Championships 2024 is happening in Mangaluru for the first time. This is a great opportunity for swimmers in India to showcase their potential and garner more support for swimming in the country. I am looking forward to being in my best form and I will be vying for Gold in all my events and make use of the home advantage.”
Swimming Federation of India Secretary General Monal Chokshi said: “I am confident the Indian swimmers will make use of the International facility and take advantage to surpass the previous year’s performance.”
“It is a true honour and pride for us to host the 77th Senior National Aquatic Championships 2024 in Mangaluru under the Karnataka Swimming Association’s umbrella. We are geared up to ensure the event is a mega success and that every participant will return home with memories they would cherish for a lifetime,” expressed Gopal B Hosur, IPS (Rtd), President of the Organising Committee.
The first day will see competitions in 400m freestyle, 200m breast stroke, Nataraj’s pet event 100m backstroke, 50m butterfly and 4x100m medley relay.
(With inputs from Agencies)
