Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria Expresses Happiness Over Securing Prestigious International Athletics Event
The Voice of Chandigarh | Pari Jain
In a major achievement for the city’s sporting landscape, Chandigarh has been awarded the hosting rights for the prestigious Asian Relay Championship 2027 by the Asian Athletics Association. The championship, scheduled to be held in Chandigarh in May 2027, will witness participation from leading Asian nations renowned for excellence in athletics and is expected to place the city prominently on the international sporting map.
This will be the first major international sporting championship to be hosted in Chandigarh since the Asian Rowing Championship held in 1989, marking a significant milestone for the city after more than three decades.
The decision was taken during the Council Meeting of the Asian Athletics Association held in Hong Kong. Acting on the directions of Hon’ble Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, the presentation for Chandigarh’s bid was made by Mandip Singh Brar, Home Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, along with Ravinder Chaudhary, Director Competitions, Athletics Federation of India.
During the presentation, the Home Secretary highlighted Chandigarh’s world-class sporting infrastructure, excellent connectivity, planned urban design, green environment, hospitality and the strong commitment of the Hon’ble Administrator to develop Chandigarh as a centre of sporting excellence.
Expressing happiness over the achievement, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria said, “I am truly delighted that Chandigarh has been chosen to host the Asian Relay Championship 2027. This is a proud moment for the entire city and a strong recognition of Chandigarh’s growing identity as a centre for international sporting events. The City Beautiful is fully prepared to welcome athletes and guests from across Asia. Chandigarh Administration will continue to work dedicatedly towards strengthening sports infrastructure and nurturing a vibrant sporting culture for our youth.”
General Dahlan Jumaan Al-Hamad, President of the Asian Athletics Association, congratulated the Home Secretary on Chandigarh being awarded the hosting rights for the championship. On behalf of the Chandigarh Administration, the Home Secretary presented the iconic Open Hand memento to the President of the Asian Athletics Association and expressed gratitude to the Asian Athletics Association and the Athletics Federation of India for reposing their trust in Chandigarh.
The award of the championship reflects the continuous efforts of the Sports Department, Chandigarh Administration, towards strengthening the city’s sports ecosystem. The event is expected to act as a catalyst for further upgradation of sporting infrastructure and help position Chandigarh as a preferred destination for national and international sporting events in the years ahead.
