New Delhi, April 20: A strong contingent of 39 athletes from Reliance Foundation is set to compete in the 28th Federation Cup, scheduled to take place in Kochi from April 21 to 24. With the Asian Championships on the horizon next month, this event will be a crucial qualifying platform for the country’s top track and field talent.
Eleven Reliance Foundation athletes, including national record holders Jyothi Yarraji and Gurindervir Singh, have already met the qualification standards for the Asian Championships. Gurindervir, who recently broke the national 100m record, is determined to maintain his momentum: “I’m really looking forward to this competition. I’ve put in a lot of hard work during the pre-season with our coaches and support staff, and I’m confident of delivering a strong performance,” he said.
The Foundation, in collaboration with Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, will also provide a dedicated recovery centre at the Federation Cup venue—an initiative that proved highly effective during the National Games, where Reliance Foundation athletes achieved their best-ever results.
James Hillier, Athletics Director at Reliance Foundation, emphasized the significance of this meet: “This is a key event as it also serves as a selection trial for the Asian Championships. Eleven of our athletes have already qualified, several in multiple events, and many others are close to the standard. We’ve focused on ensuring they peak at the right time.” A team of 22 support staff members will accompany the athletes to provide comprehensive physical and mental support.
Athletes like Kishore Jena and Vikrant Malik (javelin), Moumita Mondal (long jump), Sawan Barwal and Kiran Matre (5000m/10000m), Manikanta Hoblidhar (100m), and Mohammed Afsal (800m), who have already qualified, will be aiming for top finishes to strengthen their spots. They’ll be joined by elite names such as Tejas Shirse (110m hurdles), Amlan Borgohain (200m), Jeswin Aldrin (long jump), and Animesh Kujur (100m/200m), adding depth to an already formidable lineup.
With preparation, performance, and purpose aligned, Reliance Foundation is firmly focused on shaping world-class athletes ready to make their mark on the continental and global stage.
