President Mrza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir inaugurated the Arafat Rahman Koko 18th National Summer Athletics Competition by releasing the balloons as the chief guest at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Friday.
State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque was along with him as the special guest.
Administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation Abdus Salam, General Secretary of Bangladesh Athletics Federation Advocate Ali Imam Tapan were present, among others.
President of Bangladesh Athletics Federation Mohammad Abdullah Zaber presided over the inaugural ceremony.
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said sports are the best way to protect the younger generation from drug addiction, mobile phone addiction and frustration.
“Sports teach young people discipline, perseverance and self-confidence,” the President told the inaugural function of the 18th Arafat Rahman Koko National Summer Athletics Competition 2026.
He said expanding sports facilities and ensuring access to playgrounds are essential to protecting the younger generation from destruction and building a healthy nation.
“Athletics is called the mother of sports. It is where an athlete’s speed, strength, agility, discipline and endurance are truly tested. Strengthening this foundation will also enhance the country’s capabilities in other sports,” he said.
Imranur Rahman retained his men’s 100m title, while Shirin Akter defended her women’s crown as the Arafat Rahman Koko 18th National Summer Athletics Competition-2026 began at the same venue on the same day.
Imranur crossed the finish line in 10.53 seconds to claim the men’s sprint title. Mohammad Ismail finished second in 10.66 seconds, while Tarek Rahman took third place with a time of 10.73 seconds.
Shirin maintained her dominance in the women’s 100m, winning in 12.08 seconds. Sharifa Khatun finished runner-up in 12.23 seconds, with Sumaiya Dewan taking third in 12.33 seconds.
Imranur’s winning time put him 0.13 seconds ahead of Ismail, while Tarek finished a further 0.07 seconds behind the runner-up.
Shirin secured her title by 0.15 seconds ahead of Sharifa. Sumaiya, who had lost the women’s sprint crown to Shirin at the previous National Athletics Championships, again missed out on the top spot.