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KABUL (SW): Afghanistan is all set to take part in the forthcoming Asian Athletics Championship (AAC) 2017.
According to Afghanistan Physical Fitness Directorate, a six-member national squad has departed for India to take part in the 22nd AAC to be held in Odisha 6-9 July 2017. The team is led by president of the Athletics Federation Abdul Kareem Azizi. Two female and four male athletes from Afghanistan would represent their country in this event featuring 45 countries.
Afghanistan remains medal-less in this event so far, but the officials are hopeful for some success this time.
The 22nd edition of the Championships was earlier scheduled to be held in Ranchi, Jharkhand from July 1-4, 2017. However, after Ranchi’s inability to host the event, the Government of Odisha stepped up to stage the prestigious event at refurbished Kalinga Stadium.On March 30, after a detailed presentation by Adille J Sumariwalla, President AFI, the Asian Athletics Association Council confirmed Bhubaneswar as a host of the Asian Meet.
In the last edition of the championship held in Wuhan, China, India won a total of 13 medals including four gold medals, five silver medal and four bronze medals. As the third Indian-city to host the Asian Championships, Bhubaneshwar will host nearly 800 athletes from 45 countries. The winners of the Asian meet will get a direct berth for the World championship in London from August 4-13. As host, India is eligible to field three athletes in each discipline, instead of the usual two.
China remains on top at the AAC with a total of 606 medals followed by Japan with 540 medals and India remains third with 282 medals.
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