Olympic Day Run Spreads Sporting Values Across Telangana, Says Minister

Hyderabad: The Olympic Day Run should reach every corner of the state and inspire communities to embrace the Olympic ethos, Telangana Sports and Youth Services Minister Vakiti Srihari said on Tuesday.

The minister joined the Olympic Day Run-2026, hosted by the Telangana Olympic Association at LB Stadium. The event also saw the presence of Telangana Olympic Association president Jitender Reddy, SATS chairman Shivasena Reddy, and government adviser Venugopalachari.

Addressing participants, Vakiti Srihari lauded the athletes who relayed the Olympic torch across various parts of the city. He noted that this annual celebration is held worldwide to advance Olympic principles. The run, he explained, plays a crucial role in fostering sporting enthusiasm among the general public while contributing to the development of a physically fit society.

Discipline as Foundation for Athletic Excellence

The minister underscored the importance of discipline in athletic achievement, stating that sportspeople aspiring to compete at national and international levels must cultivate rigorous personal standards comparable to those of military personnel.

Vakiti Srihari highlighted the state government's commitment to sports development over the past two and a half years under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy's leadership. The administration has rolled out multiple programmes aimed at strengthening the sports infrastructure and ecosystem within Telangana.

The government has prioritized preparing Telangana's athletes for the 2036 Olympics while simultaneously creating pathways for budding talent to flourish. Two successful editions of the CM Cup have been conducted as part of these efforts, specifically designed to discover sporting potential in rural communities. The state is also investing in upgrading sports facilities statewide.

The minister called for sustained momentum in promoting the Olympic Day spirit, arguing that widespread adoption of these principles would foster healthier communities and provide young people with enhanced opportunities for growth and success.