First annual athletics meet concludes at SRM University–AP, Amaravati

SRM University–AP, Amaravati, successfully hosted its First Annual Athletics Meet, bringing together students, faculty, and sports enthusiasts in a vibrant celebration of athletic excellence and sportsmanship.

The two-day event was graced by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Professor Ch Satish Kumar, as the Chief Guest. He congratulated the Directorate of Sports, NCC cadets, and the Student Council for successfully organising the event. Emphasising the value of perseverance in sports, he noted that while the journey is often demanding, it ultimately leads to success, medals, and a deep sense of pride when athletes represent the institution during official processions.

Registrar Dr R Premkumar, the Guest of Honour, expressed his happiness that this year’s event focused exclusively on athletics rather than combining multiple sports. He highlighted that in sports, there is no concept of winning or losing—only opportunities to win or to learn.

Dr Vir Ji Koul, Director of Sports at SRM University–AP, played a key role in organising and guiding the event. Speaking on the occasion, he remarked, “The First Annual Athletics Meet marks an important step in strengthening the sporting culture at SRM University–AP. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by our students reflect their commitment to fitness, discipline, and excellence. We aim to build a strong ecosystem that nurtures athletic talent and encourages students to pursue sports alongside academics.”

The athletic competitions witnessed enthusiastic participation across a wide range of track and field events, including 4x100 m and 4x400 m relays for men and women, shot put, long jump, 100 m, 200 m, 400 m, 800 m, and 1500 m races, as well as javelin throw. Winners were felicitated during the valedictory session by the Registrar.

In the student category, participants from the School of Engineering and Sciences (SEAS) delivered an impressive performance across track and field events. Madhan secured first place in both the 100 m and 200 m races, while Aryan Vishnu topped the long jump event. Shashank emerged victorious in the shot put competition.

In the women’s category, Ch Ashwini clinched first place in the 100 m race, Mansha Soni secured the top position in the 200 m event, and K Anushika emerged as the winner in shot put. B Srihasini also delivered a strong performance, winning the long jump event.

Faculty and staff members also participated actively across age categories. In the men’s category (40–50 years), Dr Anirudh Bahadur (ECE) secured first place in both the 100 m and 200 m races, while in the 30–40 years category, G Venu Gopala Reddy (ECE) emerged as the winner in both sprint events. M Hari Nagendra (Student Affairs) delivered a notable performance in field events, securing top position in long jump.

Among women faculty and staff, Suharika ( Office of Registrar) won first place in the 100 m category, while Ms Arani Tiwari (SEAS) secured first place in the shot put event.

The meet commenced with a grand opening ceremony featuring flag hoisting, a ceremonial march past led by contingent leaders, the oath-taking ceremony, and the arrival of the torch, followed by the lighting of the Olympic flame. The programme also included a yoga demonstration and special showcases such as a best physique presentation and powerlifting display.

The Annual Athletics Meet highlighted SRM University–AP’s commitment to promoting sports, fitness, and holistic development, while fostering team spirit, discipline, and competitive excellence among students and faculty.