Bargarh (Odisha)- Bargarh’s Sanskar International School witnessed a proud and uplifting moment on Sunday, July 20, 2025, as student Bibaan Patnaik was selected to represent in the National Swimming Cluster after clinching the gold medal in the Under-11 category at the CBSE East Far Zone Swimming Cluster Meet. His remarkable victory has earned him a spot in the upcoming national-level competition to be held in Panipat, Haryana.
The grand three-day event hosted by Sanskar International School concluded in a celebratory atmosphere with over 950 swimmers from Odisha, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Assam, and Manipur competing across diverse swimming categories. The competition included high-energy events such as 400m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 200m individual medley, 100m butterfly, 4x50m freestyle relay, 50m breaststroke, and 800m freestyle – all held under the age groups of Under-11, Under-14, Under-17, and Under-19 for both boys and girls.
The closing ceremony, held at the school’s vibrant sports arena, was graced by the presence of Chairman Shri Suman Sawadia, members of the school management committee, dedicated teachers, participating athletes, enthusiastic students, and proud parents. Guests of honour were warmly welcomed and felicitated with traditional shawls and saplings, reflecting the school’s deep-rooted cultural values and commitment to sustainability.
Throughout the event, Sanskar’s efficient hospitality was widely appreciated. Over 550 athletes, along with their parents and coaches, were provided comfortable accommodation and nutritious meals at the school’s ‘Disha’ and ‘Lakshya’ hostels. Spectators enjoyed delicious and affordable food from the “Food Court” set up near the swimming pool area, adding to the spirited vibe of the championship.
The audience, numbering in the thousands, witnessed nail-biting performances across 120 total events during the three-day spectacle. A 25-member officiating team led by senior referee Kunal Kishore from Ranchi, Jharkhand, ensured fair and professional judgment throughout the meet.
Among the champions were; Under-19 Boys: Teeshan Das (Bhubaneswar Model Public School), Under-19 Girls: Nishantika Sur (Mahadevi Birla World Academy, West Bengal), Under-17 Boys: Aarav Sharma (Maharshi Vidya Mandir, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh), Under-17 Girls: Shibangini Pandey (SECR Higher Secondary School, Bilaspur), Under-14 Boys: Anshuman Nag (S. Memorial Institute, Dholtala, West Bengal), Under-14 Girls: Adriza Rani Chetia (Doon Public School, Assam), Under-11 Boys: Bibaan Mohan (Montfort School, Guwahati, Assam), Under-11 Girls: Namasya Kalita (DPS, Guwahati, Assam)
The overall champion trophy went to Sai International School, Bhubaneswar, while S. Memorial Institute, Dholtala earned the runner-up title.
Parents and athletes praised the management of Sanskar International School, stating they felt completely cared for and faced no inconvenience. Locals of Bargarh also expressed their pride, calling the event a landmark for both the town and the state of Odisha.
In his closing remarks, Chairman Suman Sawadia extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, guests, and supporters, saying, “May your bond with us remain strong. With your continued blessings, we hope to keep serving students, Bargarh, and Odisha in greater ways. My congratulations to all the participants. I hope each of you leaves with unforgettable memories and a joyful experience.”
The ceremony concluded with a gracious vote of thanks by teacher Anwesha Biswal, marking the end of an inspiring event that celebrated talent, discipline, and youthful spirit.
