- Project Champion Athletics Games 2026 held at BR Ambedkar Stadium
- Hyderabad Runners Society expands Project Champion initiative
Hyderabad: Project Champion Athletics Games 2026 brought together 850 government school students as Hyderabad Runners Society hosted a large inter school athletics competition at the BR Ambedkar Stadium, BHEL. The event marked a major milestone for Project Champion, the flagship social initiative of Hyderabad Runners Society, which focuses on building physical literacy and active lifestyle habits among children studying in government schools.
The athletics games provided students with a structured and professional sporting environment. It allowed them to compete, learn discipline, and gain confidence through sport. Project Champion aims to fill a critical gap in government schools where Physical Training Teachers are not available. Under the initiative, students receive 30 to 40 minutes of regular exercises and games to encourage daily movement and healthy habits.
Project Champion began in 2023 with just five government schools and 2,800 students. However, the programme has steadily expanded. It now covers 14 government schools and has positively impacted more than 6,100 students. Importantly, this includes 2,525 female students who are beneficiaries of the initiative. Therefore, the growth reflects increasing outreach and sustained community support.
The Project Champion Athletics Games 2026 served as a key platform for students to experience competitive sports. The event included both track and field competitions for primary and high school students. Meanwhile, the games were conducted in a structured and inclusive format, ensuring participation across age groups and skill levels.
The event began with a student march past, followed by flag hoisting by Mr Arun Kumar Kaliappan. Later, the ceremonial torch was lit by Mr Ram Katikineni, Mr Ashish Bhojania, Mr Anil Kuppa, and Dr Madhumathi Sanjay. This moment symbolised inclusion, discipline, and aspiration through sport. Technical officials from the Hyderabad District Athletics Team supported the conduct of events and finalisation of results. They were assisted by Hyderabad Runners Society volunteers and staff.
Mr Vijay Yargal, Outreach Lead of Hyderabad Runners Society, planned and executed the annual sports meet. Students received medals from Mr Prashant Morparia and Mr Ajit Mishra, along with core members Mr Abhijeet Madnurkar and Mr Sudhakar Silveru. Also, the ceremony celebrated both achievement and participation.
Speaking at the event, Mr Arun Kumar Kaliappan, President of Hyderabad Runners Society, said, “Project Champion is about more than just sport. It is about giving government school children access to movement, confidence, and opportunity. Seeing 850 students compete with such energy today reaffirms our belief that physical literacy can truly change lives.”
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