Shocking! Stray Dogs Bite Japanese And Kenyan Coaches At World Para Athletics Championships In Delhi
**Two Foreign Coaches Bitten by Stray Dogs at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium During World Para Athletics Championships 2025**
The World Para Athletics Championships 2025 in New Delhi faced an unfortunate setback on Friday when two foreign coaches were bitten by stray dogs in separate incidents at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Despite a swift response from medical teams, these incidents have raised concerns about safety measures at one of India’s most prominent sporting venues.
The first incident involved Kenyan coach Dennis Maragia. He was speaking to one of his athletes near the call room outside the main competition arena when a stray dog suddenly attacked him. Joel Atuti, a government representative accompanying the Kenyan team, stated, “Blood was oozing out of his leg, and the medical team stationed at the stadium reached there promptly. He was taken to a hospital and given treatment, including injections.”
Later the same day, Japanese coach Meiko Okumatsu was also bitten by a stray dog while supervising athlete training at the warm-up track adjacent to the competition area. According to a statement issued by the organisers, both coaches received immediate medical attention at the Athlete Medical Room before being transferred to Safdarjung Hospital for further treatment.
Following their recovery, both coaches were sent back to their respective team hotels and are currently out of danger.
### A Growing Concern for Organisers
The organisers described these incidents as “isolated” but acknowledged an ongoing issue with individuals feeding stray dogs near the stadium. This practice has allowed the animals to enter the premises despite precautionary measures.
Officials confirmed they had formally requested the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on August 21 to clear the stadium of stray dogs. The MCD had acted before the start of the championships by deploying dog-catching vehicles and maintaining constant vigilance around the stadium.
However, continued feeding of strays by outsiders has reportedly undermined these efforts.
### Steps Taken to Prevent Further Incidents
To prevent further occurrences, the stadium and surrounding areas have been fully sanitized, and preventive measures reinforced in coordination with civic bodies. The organisers have underlined their commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and secure environment for all athletes, staff, and spectators.
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The organisers continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the championships.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/shocking-stray-dogs-bite-japanese-and-kenyan-coaches-at-world-para-athletics-championships-in-delhi
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