Lokmat News Network
Aditi Sharma
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar continues to produce athletes, even as it struggles with the absence of a synthetic athletics track.
In the past year, 216 athletes from the district have represented at state-level competitions. Notably, participation remains evenly balanced, with 108 boys and 108 girls competing across categories from under-14 to the open division (senior category). However, only 10 athletes progressed to the national level. Sports officials attribute this gap to inadequate infrastructure. “Our city’s athletics infrastructure is severely lacking. Even in 2026, we do not have a synthetic track for athletes to train on. Unlike cricket or tennis, athletics lacks sponsorship. With corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding and support, our athletes can win national medals. Delay in developing the track at the divisional sports complex remains a major concern,” said Dr Dayanand Kamble, sports director at SBES college of arts and commerce. As the world marks World Athletics Day, city presents a paradox growing talent and equal participation on one hand, and the absence of basic facilities on the other. The question remains whether infrastructure will catch up with ambition.
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City sporting breakthrough
“I am proud to have represented India in Tokyo as a 110m hurdler from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, showing that athletes from my city can compete at the highest level despite limitations.”
- Tejas Shirse, Athlete
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Rising track talent
“At present, most athletes are forced to train on uneven mud grounds, where every stride carries the constant risk of injury. I have been competing in middle-distance events and have won gold at the state level and the Ashwamedh Sports Tournament. I have also represented the city at national competitions, despite limited facilities and inadequate infrastructure.”
- Arjun Shinde, a middle-distance runner.
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Sports infrastructure update
“The synthetic track at the divisional sports complex is complete, with only lane markings pending. It will be ready in 15 days. The facility also has a central football ground and floodlights for evening training.”
- Bajirao Desai, district sports officer, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar